Ultrasound breast boosts: A pilot study

Abstract 

Purpose

To determine the accuracy of ultrasound localisation of the tumour bed versus clinical mark-up of the lumpectomy scar to define the electron boost field in carcinoma of the breast.

Methods

Twenty-eight patients were recruited to the pilot study and underwent diagnostic ultrasound to localise the tumour bed. The boost field was prescribed utilising the ultrasound measurements and a form was completed outlining the effect (if any) of ultrasound on the positioning of the electron field.

Results

Ultrasound affected the management of approximately 72% of patients in the pilot study.

Conclusion

Ultrasound appears to be more accurate in localising the tumour bed compared with the ‘standard’ technique of using the lumpectomy scar in this pilot study.

Keywords: Ultrasound localisation, Breast boosts, Breast cancer, Radiotherapy