"Now that we can deliver radiation to patients with more precision, we want to be able to take the small daily differences into account as well. One example is bladder fullness: if the bladder is quite full, the uterus or cervix may be moved just a little bit further down. The way in which this happens appears to be fairly predictable. I created several models for my PhD research. It was exciting to be able to consider this issue and to brainstorm with my colleagues, my promotor Jan-Jakob Sonke, and my co-promotor Peter Remeijer. My model will contribute to what we call a library of radiotherapy treatment plans. With a simple Conebeam CT scan, we can now accurately assess the most optimal radiotherapy treatment plan for each individual patient at any given time. This will allow us to spare the healthy tissue as much as possible. I am currently in Boston, USA, to conduct research into the possible consequences of irradiating blood. Another tricky challenge!"
Chris will defend his thesis on June 20.
Promotor
prof. dr. ir. J.J. Sonke