Automatic localization of catheters in prostate brachytherapy
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Authors
Kitner, Nicole
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
prostate cancer , brachytherapy , trans-rectal ultrasound , high-dose rate brachytherapy , catheter modelling
Alternative Title
Abstract
Despite recent advancements in technology, many commonly performed hospital procedures developed in the 20th century are still being used today with outdated workflows. Integrating newer technologies with these older procedures could lead to improved patient outcomes and make treatments more accessible on a global scale. Automating certain aspects of the procedures and reducing time spent under anesthesia could also decrease associated risks. The objective of this thesis is to develop an automatic localization method for catheters in three-dimensional trans-rectal ultrasound images in prostate high-dose-rate brachytherapy and integrate catheter localization into the preexisting clinical workflow. The principal contributions of this work are the design of a localization method and the implementation of an open-source tool to make the method accessible in a clinical setting.
The first contribution of the thesis proposes a two-step method that utilizes a deep-learning network and curve fitting to automatically localize catheters in three-dimensional ultrasound images. The proposed method has been shown to detect catheters with high accuracy, potentially reducing the need for manual localization and improving clinical workflow during the procedure. The reduction of human variability in catheter placement predictions may also lead to improved tracking and radiation dose modelling. For the second contribution, a clinical tool was designed and implemented to utilize this method. The tool provides a user-friendly interface for clinicians to easily visualize the deep learning network's predictions of catheter positions in a trans-rectal ultrasound image.
The proposed method and clinical tool provide a solution for improving workflow and patient outcomes during high-dose-rate brachytherapy treatment for prostate cancer. The accuracy and efficiency provided by this method and tool can make the procedure more accessible to low-volume communities and treatment centres where doctors may have less experience with the procedure. Ultimately, this technology has the potential to improve the quality of care for prostate cancer patients and make the treatment more widely available on a global scale.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.