Prof Heijmen delivered comprehensive lectures on several advanced topics. His discussion on biophysical models and their relevance to modern radiation therapy provided a strong theoretical foundation. The session on particle therapy covered its physics, technology, and radiobiological aspects, and offered insights into clinical applications. He also presented an engaging overview of emerging technologies, such as heavy ions and FLASH therapy, which left participants with a forward-looking perspective on the field. Prof Heijmen’s delivery was commended for being in-depth and accessible, setting the tone for the entire course
Dr Andrew Hope provided a radiation oncologist’s perspective with sessions on respiratory motion management, frameless image-guided radiation therapy, and stereotactic radiotherapy for lung cancer. His explanation of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in radiation oncology was particularly appreciated, as it demystified complex concepts and highlighted practical opportunities for its integration into clinical workflows. Dr Hope’s ability to translate technical details into actionable knowledge was highly valued by attendees.
A detailed overview of ways to evaluate treatment plans for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and adaptive radiation therapy principles was provided by Dr. Indranil Mallick, who emphasised their evolving role in precision oncology. His sessions provided a practical roadmap for the implementation of adaptive techniques.
The incorporation of modern imaging into target definition and the clinical opportunities and challenges of particle therapy were the focus of Dr Tejpal Gupta’s talks. His balanced perspective on the evidence that supports these advances added critical insights to the discussions.
Dr Anil Anand reviewed the evidence regarding the clinical benefits of adaptive radiotherapy. He presented data and case studies that underscored the value of the technique in improving patient outcomes.
Dr Tharmar Ganesh delivered sessions on the radiobiological and technological aspects of stereotactic radiotherapy. His talk on FLASH therapy offered a fascinating look at this emerging field and its potential for future applications.
The complexities of the designs of clinical trials to assess new technologies were discussed by Dr Jyotirup Goswami, with guidelines and practical examples to bridge the gap between theoretical research and clinical implementation.
Prof Sai Subramaniam explored the technical aspects and clinical implications of MR-Linac and CT-based adaptive radiotherapy technologies. His sessions highlighted the role of imaging in adaptive processes and offered a nuanced understanding of the technologies involved.
Errors and margins in clinical practice, as well as the technical aspects of breast deep-inspiration breath-hold and IMRT, were covered in lectures by Dr Santam Chakraborty. His discussion on AI applications in contouring was highly interactive and provided actionable takeaways.
Dr. Supriya Chopra analysed the workflow and clinical impact of transitions to the use of advanced technologies. Her session on liver stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which addressed indications, liver toxicity, and respiratory motion management, was particularly impactful and offered a detailed roadmap for implementation.
The radiation therapist sessions were a highlight of the course. The sessions by new faculty members Mr. Umbarkar and Dr. Daly brought fresh insights into variations of correction strategies for inter-fraction tumour setup, implementation of CT-based and MR-Linac-based adaptive radiotherapy, and the development of site-specific protocols for planning-target-volume margins and image guidance. They guided discussions on key areas such as head and neck cancers, gynaecological sites, and prostate cancer. Their dynamic presentations, combined with collaboration in interactive clinical sessions, offered crucial perspectives to bridge the gap between technology, medicine and patients.
The interactive clinical sessions provided hands-on learning opportunities that were focused on plan evaluation, patient-specific quality assurance, and imaging protocols for lung and liver SBRT and for cranial stereotactic radiosurgery. The use of the Mentimeter application for real-time polls and question-and-answer sessions enhanced engagement and facilitated dynamic discussions, becoming a notable highlight of the course.
This joint course has been running for over a decade and continues to be relevant and popular. It is being adapted to be truly multidisciplinary as more participation is invited from radiation therapists and medical physicists. Additionally, the course emphasises not just the applications but an evidence-based outlook toward new technologies.
Overall, the course provided an enriching academic experience. The knowledge gained will undoubtedly influence clinical practice and inspire future advances. This event marked a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and professional growth within the radiation oncology community.
The next AROI-ESTRO course in Chandigarh, India, is eagerly anticipated.
Authors Prakash Umbarkar, Mairéead Daly, Indrani Mallick, Ben Heijmen, Pritanjali Singh, Andrew Hope, Anil Anand, Tejpal Gupta, Tharmar Ganesh, Santam Chakroborty, Supriya Chopra, Sai Subramaniam, Jyotirup Goswami.
Prakash Umbarkar at the lectern Mairéad Daly gives a talk
Prakash Umbarkar M.Sc. Physics, (Postgraduate diploma in radiotherapy technology)
Executive senior radiation therapist
P.D Hinduja Hospital
Mumbai, India
umbarkarprakash@gmail.com
ESTRO positioning and immobilisation focus group