Three-dimensional dose mapping from gamma knife treatment using a dosimeter gel and MR-imaging

A new method has been investigated for the mapping of dose distributions in three dimensions delivered by the Leksell gamma knife. The irradiation unit is used to selectively treat small volumes in the brain with single high doses of ionising radiation--a treatment procedure known as radiosurgery. The dosimetry method investigated utilises a dosimeter gel consisting of ferrous sulphate solution and agarose which is, prior to irradiation, loaded into a cavity in a spherical phantom. Chemical changes induced in the gel by the radiation are measured by means of an MR-scanner. This imaging method permits rapid evaluation of the dose distribution in an irradiated volume. It thus offers a potential verification of individual radiation intracranial target treatment regimes as well as quality assurance measurements, assuming that the precision and accuracy of the dose mapping are adequate. The dose and its distribution registered by the gel dosimeter, in this initial experiment, are in good agreement with corresponding computed data obtained with the KULA treatment planning system of the gamma knife. The gel has thus the potential of being an attractive alternative dose mapping method to those used at present in radiosurgery, i.e. radiographic film and small ionisation chambers. The precision of the dosimeter gel is, however, not yet sufficient high to be used as a basic dosimetry system for the gamma knife.