A review of artificial intelligence in brachytherapy

J Appl Clin Med Phys. 2025 Jun;26(6):e70034. doi: 10.1002/acm2.70034. Epub 2025 Feb 27.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize brachytherapy's clinical workflow. This review comprehensively examines the application of AI, focusing on machine learning and deep learning, in various aspects of brachytherapy. We analyze AI's role in making brachytherapy treatments more personalized, efficient, and effective. The applications are systematically categorized into seven categories: imaging, preplanning, treatment planning, applicator reconstruction, quality assurance, outcome prediction, and real-time monitoring. Each major category is further subdivided based on cancer type or specific tasks, with detailed summaries of models, data sizes, and results presented in corresponding tables. Additionally, we discuss the limitations, challenges, and ethical concerns of current AI applications, along with perspectives on future directions. This review offers insights into the current advancements, challenges, and the impact of AI on treatment paradigms, encouraging further research to expand its clinical utility.

Keywords: AI; HDR; LDR; brachytherapy; machine learning.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Brachytherapy* / methods
  • Deep Learning
  • Humans
  • Machine Learning*
  • Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted* / methods