Two-dimensional thermoluminescence dosimetry using planar detectors and a TL reader with CCD camera readout

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Dosimetry
• Radiotherapy Technology

Background:

• Accurate two-dimensional (2-D) dose distribution determination is crucial for effective radiotherapy.
• Conventional dosimetry methods may have limitations in spatial resolution and coverage for complex dose mapping.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel method for determining 2-D dose distributions using large-area thermoluminescent (TL) detectors.
• To demonstrate the capability of this new system in mapping dose distributions relevant to clinical radiotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Development of in-house large-area TL detectors (LiF powder on Al foil).
• Utilized an in-house developed planar large-area TL reader with a coupled charge device (CCD) camera for readout.
• Acquired digital images of 2-D dose distributions on the TL detector surface.

Main Results:

• Successfully mapped 2-D dose distributions around a brachytherapy source.
• Demonstrated dose ranges and source geometries relevant for clinical radiotherapy.
• Showcased examples of local and dynamic evaluation of TL output from conventional TL detectors.

Conclusions:

• The novel system provides a viable method for 2-D dose distribution mapping in radiotherapy.
• The developed large-area TL detectors and reader system offer digital imaging of dose distributions.
• This technology has potential applications in quality assurance and treatment planning in radiation oncology.