General and specific aspects of experimental dose measurement in total body irradiation (TBI)

In magna-field irradiation using high energy bremsstrahlung (photons), i.e. total body irradiation, it is desirable to achieve a homogeneous dose distribution or to realize a planned modification in dose deposition within the target volume. In the Department of Radiology, University of Kiel, for this purpose individually constructed compensators are in routine use for about three years. Some physical and dosimetric aspects of this irradiation technique are described briefly and the experimental test procedure for TBI-compensators is highlighted by several details, for example transmission measurements, radiographies of the compensators and determination of actual dose rates in the midplane of the patient.