A review of prostate motion with considerations for the treatment of prostate cancer

The motion of the prostate gland can influence the efficacy of radiation therapy. This article examines the literature concerning prostate gland motion with considerations for the treatment of cancer. The objectives of this review include providing radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and dosimetrists with data to assist in determining the best treatment adaptation for individual patients. The prostate gland is not a static structure, but rather a dynamic structure and this should be a consideration in the treatment protocol. The treatment planning personnel must add a margin to the clinical treatment volume (CTV) radiation field to account for prostate motion and patient setup errors resulting in a planning treatment volume (PTV). The movement of the prostate in a radiation field with a small margin to protect the anterior rectum may allow the posterior aspect of the gland to escape the prescribed dose. Thus, an understanding of potential prostate movements in radiation therapy is critical to achieve tumor control and minimize radiation complications in patients.