Sci-Sat AM(2): Brachy-04: Spectral and dosimetric study of the Xoft electronic brachytherapy system

The Axxent developed by Xoft Inc. is a miniature x-ray tube capable of generating a 50 kVp x-ray spectrum with dose-rates suitable for HDR applications. Results of spectral measurements compared with Geant4 Monte Carlo simulations have been published. This study is a continuation of previous work with shifting emphasis towards dosimetric characterization of the miniature x-ray tube. Dose distributions using EBT Gafchromic films agree to within 10 % of Geant4 results. In addition, TG-43 parameters can be calculated. However, consideration should be given to the biological effectiveness of the spectrum at different depths. Spectral measurements show significant beam hardening with 1^st HVL increasing from 0.55 to 1.20 mm Al after 11.50 mm of water filtration. This effect may be attributed to the significant loss of low energy characteristic photons. Furthermore, the degree of beam hardening is dependent of the material, with 1^st HVLs of 1.20 and 1.03 mm Al after 11.50 mm of water and Lucite respectively. The biological effect is quantified by calculating the number of single and double strand breaks. The number of strand breaks for the 50 kVp x-ray spectrum is similar to that of I-125 radiation.