Treatment of early stage breast cancer continues to evolve as researchers investigate more novel and efficient methods of radiotherapy. Clinical trials on accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) are showing that these newer methods can offer carefully selected patients several advantages over traditional whole breast irradiation (WBI).

There were three key trends in X-ray vascular imaging systems made evident from new products showcased at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting in late 2012. These include new hardware and software to lower ionizing radiation doses and improve image quality, better dose tracking software, and enhanced maneuverability for improved patient access and use in the growing hybrid OR market. As interventional procedures become more complex, imaging times have increased, raising concerns that are now being addressed by vendors.

Imaging children has challenges that relate to the size, maturity and anxiety of the patient. In addition, we have become increasingly aware of the risks associated with radiation exposure, an issue that is of paramount importance to young patients. Through the efforts of professional organizations, industry and the Image Gently campaign, launched in 2008 by The Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging, tremendous advancements have been made in technology and its use to help meet these challenges.

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has issued a new white paper, “Assuring Safety and Quality in Image Guided Delivery of Radiation Therapy,” that recommends best practices to improve the safety and effectiveness of image guided radiation therapy (IGRT), according to the manuscript published as an article in the online journal Practical Radiation Oncology (PRO).