Individual multi-catheter mould technique in high-dose-rate brachytherapy – personalized approach in treating multifocal angiosarcoma of the face

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to report individual surface mould multi-catheter high-dose-rate (IMM HDR) application as a salvage treatment for a head and neck angiosarcoma patient, previously treated with surgery followed by external beam radiotherapy.

Material and methods

A 74-year-old male reported to our center with an uncommon malignant neoplasm of blood vessels. The patient was qualified for a wide local excision (WLE) of tumor with simultaneous reconstruction using a free-flap collected from the patient’s thigh. After surgery, the patient was qualified for adjuvant external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT). Volumetric arc therapy (VMAT; RapidArc®, Varian Medical Systems) was used to deliver 52.8 Gy/1.6 Gy in 33 fractions. Overall treatment time was 51 days. Six months after radiotherapy, an incisional biopsy of non-healing ulcer of the nasal bridge revealed angiosarcoma. Wide local excision with skin graft reconstruction was planned. Due to multifocal disease and lack of possibility for further margin, the resection surgery was completed after skin graft reconstruction from the right thigh. Surface IMM HDR was considered as an alternative option for further treatment. Total dose of 48 Gy (12 fractions) was planned.

Results

One month after surface IMM HDR, healing process of the skin was observed in the treated regions and six months later, the irradiated areas recovered. General condition of the patient deteriorated two years after diagnosis and one year after HDR. He was hospitalized to receive palliative care.

Conclusions

HDR brachytherapy may be a valuable option for angiosarcoma treatment. Difficult lesion location may yield non-radical surgery. Surface IMM HDR provides highly conformal plan and allow adjusting the dose to individual clinical situation.