A novel multi‐modality imaging phantom for validating interstitial needle guidance for high dose rate gynecological brachytherapy

PURPOSE: To design, manufacture, and validate a female pelvic phantom for multi‐modality imaging (CT, MRI, US) to benchmark a commercial needle tracking system with application in HDR gynecological (GYN) interstitial procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A GYN needle‐tracking phantom was designed using CAD software to model an average uterus from a previous patient study, a vaginal canal from speculum dimensions, and a rectum to accommodate a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) probe. A target volume (CTV(HR)) was designed as an extension from the cervix‐uterus complex. Negative space molds were created from modeled anatomy and 3D printed. Silicone was used to cast the anatomy molds. A 3D printed box was constructed to house the manufactured anatomy for structural integrity and to accommodate the insertion of a speculum, tandem, needles, and TRUS probe. The phantom was CT‐imaged to identify potential imperfections that might impact US visualization. Free‐hand TRUS was used to guide interstitial needles into the phantom. The commercial tracking system was used to generate a 3D US volume. After insertion, the phantom was imaged with CT and MR and the uterus and CTV(HR) dimensions were verified against the CAD model. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: The manufactured phantom allows for accurate visualization with multiple imaging modalities and is conducive to applicator and needle insertion. The phantom dimensions from the CAD model were verified with those from each imaging modality. The phantom is low cost and can be reproducibly manufactured with the 3D printing and molding processes. Our initial experiments demonstrate the ability to integrate the phantom with a commercial tracking system for future needle tracking validation studies.