The Department of Radiation Oncology simulation suite includes a GE Signa HD 3.0 Tesla MRI system. The Department is one of only a few radiation oncology departments in the U.S. to have a 3.0 T MR.

This system is an integral part of the Department’s Bio-Anatomic Imaging and Treatment (BAIT) planning clinical and research program. This program focuses on sculpting conformal treatment plans based on targets defined by tumor anatomy, biology, chemistry and physiology.

In addition to the high resolution anatomical images provided by this system, spectroscopic and functional datasets can also be acquired, allowing our physicians to incorporate biological and physiological data in the treatment plans.

For conventional external beam treatments, our physicians use multi-modality datasets to better define the boundaries of treatment targets and avoidance structures. For patients receiving treatment on the Department’s Gamma Knife stereotactic treatment unit, the 3.0 T MRI provides the high resolution images needed in the planning of these high precision treatments.

The 3.0 T MRI was an important addition to the Department’s clinical service when it was installed in 2005. The Department of Radiation Oncology has a long standing interest in neuro-oncology. This interest has grown out of the Gamma Knife Center and led to the formation of the Brain Tumor Center of Excellence of Wake Forest University. The acquisition of the 3.0 T MRI system has strengthened our program because MRI continues to be the primary imaging modality for neuro-oncologic tumors.  

As MRI continues to grow in the areas of anatomical, spectroscopic, and functional imaging in oncology. the Department of Radiation Oncology is positioned to advance the growth of this technology in the area of radiation therapy treatment planning of many body sites. Clinical trials utilizing the strengths of MRI are being developed in the areas of brain cancers, breast cancers, and paraspinal tumors. Other body sites are sure to follow. Investigations of these types are the link to the future of radiation therapy treatment planning.