Optimizing Atlas Counts for MRI-Guided Atlas-Based Autosegmentation of Swallowing Muscles in Head and Neck Radiotherapy.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Radiotherapy-induced dysphagia can significantly impair head and neck (H&N) cancer patients' quality of life. Despite the dose-dependent relationship between radiotherapy and dysphagia, swallowing structures are not routinely contoured due to time and labor demands. We evaluated atlas-based autosegmentation (ABAS) on MRI, identifying the optimal number of atlases required to efficiently and accurately delineate swallowing structures.

Methods

This study included pre-radiotherapy simulation T2-weighted MRIs from 60 H&N cancer patients enrolled in an IRB-approved observational trial. Scans were acquired on a 1.5T Siemens Aera scanner with H&N immobilization. Swallowing structures, including epiglottis, constrictors, digastric muscles, genioglossus, and others, were manu

SUBMITTER: Belal Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12324652 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature