UPCOMING MEETING: Palliative Radiotherapy: Improving Quality of Life

Abstract

Palliative radiotherapy plays a significant role in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life in oncology patients. It is particularly commonly used in cases of bone metastases, where pain control and the preservation of functional capacity are primary priorities.

The presented work reviews patient cases treated with various dosimetric regimens, evaluated using biologically effective dose (BED) and EQD2 parameters. Analysis of the results demonstrates that appropriately selected fractionation schemes provide rapid and sustained pain relief with minimal side effects.

The findings confirm that, in the context of bone metastases, palliative radiotherapy ensures not only effective symptom control but also a meaningful improvement in patients’ quality of life.

General Safety and Biosecurity Challenges - Laboratory and Beyond

The Georgian Health Physics Association (GHPA) held its latest meeting on February 28, 2025, featuring a presentation by Anna Kekelidze, an experienced professional in biosafety, environmental protection, and health & safety management at the State Laboratory of Agriculture of Georgia.

Ms. Kekelidze provided a comprehensive overview of her professional experience, focusing on regulatory compliance, risk management, and the development of safety programs within laboratory environments. Her presentation addressed key aspects of laboratory operations, including waste management, personnel training and competency assessment, procedural reviews, and collaboration with regulatory authorities. Attendees were presented with practical examples illustrating the implementation of safety programs, inspection methodologies, and strategic planning aimed at enhancing biosecurity practices.

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High-dose precision radionuclide therapy (PRnT) by direct interstitial injection: optimizing therapeutic ratios for safe and effective delivery of high-dose radionuclide therapy in treating solid tumors

On November 3, 2023, the Georgian Health Physics Association welcomed Darrell Fisher, a seasoned nuclear medicine physicist representing Versant Medical Physics & Radiation Safety, to share his groundbreaking work in precision radionuclide therapy.   Fisher received his Ph.D. in nuclear engineering sciences from the University of Florida and carried a rich legacy of a 35-year tenure as a senior scientist and the lead of the Isotope Sciences Program at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. His career also showcases his role as a science advisor to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner between 2003 and 2005. Notably, Dr. Fisher has been a pivotal figure in leadership of the Health Physics Society, serving on its board of directors, as treasurer, and later as president of the society.

Dr. Darrell Fisher presents to GHPA members

Analyzing dose parameters of radiation therapy treatment planning and estimation of their influence on secondary cancer risks

The Georgian Health Physics Association (GHPA) hosted an online technical meeting on October 6, 2023, featuring Maia Topeshashvili, MS, Chief Medical Physicist from the Radiation Oncology Department at Todua Clinic.

The meeting focused on the vital topic of estimating secondary cancer risk following breast cancer radiotherapy, employing organ equivalent dose (OED) concepts. Maia Topeshashvili's presentation provided crucial insights into this subject, with detailed findings from a study involving multiple breast cancer patients.

For comprehensive details on the study's results and implications, please refer to the abstract and the full presentation YouTube recording below.

Maia Topeshashvili, Medical Physicist from Todua Clinic presenting to GHPA