Three dimensional printed electron beam modifier for total skin electron treatments

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Total Skin Electron Beam (TSEB) therapy is effective for skin malignancies but is time-consuming and physically demanding for patients.
• Reducing treatment time is crucial, especially for frail patients who may struggle with prolonged positioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a single Total Skin Electron Beam (TSEB) field using 3D-printed modifiers to decrease treatment time.
• To assess the dosimetric characteristics and clinical acceptability of the modified TSEB technique.

Main Methods:

• Designed and constructed aluminum and thermoplastic beam modifiers using 3D printing technology.
• Measured and calculated electron beam characteristics at various distances and treatment levels.
• Evaluated field dimensions, dose distribution, and treatment time reduction.

Main Results:

• Plastic modifiers provided a favorable balance of field dimensions and treatment time.
• A final 3D-printed modifier created a 176 × 70 cm field at 6 MeV with acceptable inhomogeneity (10% vertical, 3% lateral).
• The modified technique reduced treatment time by approximately two minutes, with acceptable skin coverage and low Bremsstrahlung radiation (<5%).

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed plastic modifiers can create a clinically acceptable single TSEB field, significantly reducing treatment time.
• This approach offers a viable alternative for fragile patients undergoing TSEB therapy, improving tolerance and potentially treatment adherence.
• The modified technique maintains adequate skin coverage and radiation safety standards.