[An analytical method for calculation of electron dose distributions. Part II: Experimental verification and...

The analytical method for calculation of electron dose distributions described in part I was experimentally verified using a 42-MeV betatron. For this, a comparison was made between the calculated and the measured dose distributions obtained with a homogeneous or inhomogeneous water or polystyrol phantom with plane or with uneven surfaces, the inhomogeneities consisting in cavities and cork intercalations. Thus, the accuracy of the algorithm and of the consideration for inhomogeneities and irregular surfaces is demonstrated, and limitations of the method's applicability are shown. Some examples of calculated dose distributions in coplanar irradiation techniques using solely electron beams or else a combined treatment with photons and electrons are exhibiting the particular bearing of electronic data processing on the treatment planning in depth therapy with electrons in the energy range above 20 MeV.