FIXING DEVICE OF APPLICATORS IN HIGH DOSE RATE INTRACAVITARY REMOTE AFTERLOADING THERAPY FOR UTERINE CANCER

We have developed an original fixing device for applicators of tandem and ovoids sources during high dose rate intracavitary therapy for uterine cancer. This device consists of a pan head and an elevator of tripod for the camera and has special connectors to fit to various kinds of applicator during this treatment. Efficacy of this device were analysed using X-ray film (A-P, L-R) of the patients at the beginning of treatment. From August 1978 through August 1985, a total of 320 cases (total number of treatments : 1321) in clusive uterine cancer had been treated with this device. The following items were investigated : changes in the coodinates of both ovoid sources, correction rate(%) of point A and coordinates of the weighted geometric center. Favorable results were obtained. This device have several following merits : (1) The appropriate dose distribution is obtained by shifting the position of the applicators of the tandem and ovoids sources carefully on this fixing device. (2) Fixation and modification of the position of in vivo dosimeter ICD-5 are easily achieved. (3) Set up and detachment of this fixing device can be easily carried out without disturbing the operator and contamination according to each treatment. In conclusion, this device is very significant for intracavitary treatment results in the near future.