Radiation safety consideration during intraoperative radiation therapy

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) systems require careful radiation safety assessments.
• The Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy System is a novel IORT device necessitating evaluation of its radiation output.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure radiation exposure rates around the Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy System during phantom and clinical treatments.
• To determine the effectiveness of lead shielding in reducing radiation exposure.
• To assess the feasibility of using the system in standard operating rooms.

Main Methods:

• Utilized in-house-designed phantoms for initial radiation exposure measurements.
• Conducted radiation surveys during clinical IORT procedures on breast, floor of the mouth, and neck cancer patients.
• Measured exposure rates at various distances and assessed the impact of movable lead shields.

Main Results:

• Exposure rates of 200 mR/h at 30 cm were recorded during IORT with surface applicators and balloons.
• Movable lead shields reduced radiation exposure rates by over 95%.
• The 50-kVp X-ray source allows IORT in regular operating rooms with appropriate shielding and personal protective equipment.

Conclusions:

• The Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy System can be safely operated in standard operating rooms.
• Movable lead shields are highly effective in mitigating radiation exposure.
• Adherence to safety protocols, including lead aprons and shields, is crucial for personnel protection during IORT.