Abstracts Archive

UK & Ireland Prostate Brachytherapy Conference 2019

Abstract number 6

Robotic Prostate Biopsy and LDR/HDR Brachytherapy under MRI Guidance: Update from the EU-funded CoBra Project

Wilby S*, Polak W*, Hodgson D*, Nagar YS*, Palmer AL*, Labib A**, Jones D**, Firouzy S**, Merzouki R† 
* Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust 
** University of Portsmouth 
† University of Lille, France 

Introduction: We present a progress report on the five year CoBra (Cooperative Brachytherapy) project. CoBra aims to develop an innovative technology for robotic biopsy and brachytherapy under MRI guidance. The main deliverable will be a robotic arm for both biopsy and brachytherapy treatment (LDR and HDR), utilising a small number of perineal puncture needles, with high precision and accuracy. Funded by the EU Interreg 2 Seas body, this project involves multiple institutions, led by the University of Lille. 

Methods: The project was divided into work packages assigned to collaborating institutions selected for each task. The packages have a set of milestones and progress is reviewed bi-weekly via web conference and every three months at a steering meeting. 

Results: A detailed specification document was submitted by Portsmouth Hospital. The University of Portsmouth (UoP) have mapped prostate cancer incidence per year within the UK’s 2 seas region as a function of distance to nearest treatment centre and are now focussing on trajectory planning for needles. Two steerable needle concepts are being considered by TuDelft. DEMCON, focussing on the biopsy module, have reviewed actuation principles for the needle positioning system in an MR environment and will progress with a pneumatic technique. They have also reviewed prostate cancer detection rates versus biopsy needle characteristics. Centre Oscar Lambert presented a proof of concept for a deep learning approach to generating pseudo CT datasets from MR images. The University of Lille have developed a workflow for the robot under MR guidance, including a patient positioning system and a controller shielded from magnetic field fringes. Additionally 3D simulation software is in development. Portsmouth hospital is collaborating with the UoP on the development of a physical phantom for quality assurance. 

Conclusion: This exciting collaboration is progressing well, generating new knowledge of benefit to brachytherapy and biopsy, with broader applications in medical field.