Delineation of organs at risk in radiotherapy and perspectives.
Authors
Affiliations (4)
Affiliations (4)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe (ICANS), 17, rue Albert-Calmette, BP 23025, 67033 Strasbourg, France.
- Molecular Radiotherapy and Advanced Therapies, Inserm UMR1030, Gustave-Roussy Cancer Campus, université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, institut du cancer Avignon-Provence, 250, chemin de Baigne-Pieds, 84000 Avignon, France.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe (ICANS), 17, rue Albert-Calmette, BP 23025, 67033 Strasbourg, France. Electronic address: [email protected].
Abstract
The delineation of organs at risk is fundamental in radiotherapy, ensuring optimal tumour targeting while minimizing toxicity to healthy tissues. Advances in imaging, including MRI-based segmentation and functional imaging, have improved contour precision, while artificial intelligence-assisted autosegmentation enhances efficiency and reproducibility. This article presents updated organs at risk delineation guidelines, incorporating emerging critical structures and refined contouring protocols. Despite technological progress, challenges remain in integrating artificial intelligence-driven tools and functional imaging into routine practice, requiring continued validation and standardization. The future of organs at risk delineation lies in a multidisciplinary approach combining automation, adaptive radiotherapy, and personalized treatment planning to optimize patient safety and long-term outcomes.