Feasibility study of shielded diode detector for small field dosimetry

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Radiotherapy Dosimetry

Background:

• Modern radiotherapy requires precise tumor targeting, leading to the need for small-field dosimetry.
• Existing dosimetry protocols, often based on cavity theory, are challenging for small fields.
• Diamond detectors offer excellent spatial resolution and sensitivity for small-field dosimetry but are not widely available.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of using diode detectors for small-field dosimetry when diamond detectors are unavailable.
• To assess the effectiveness of the Daisy Chaining method for correcting diode detector measurements in small fields.
• To highlight the importance of regular diode detector performance checks.

Main Methods:

• Investigated the use of diode detectors for small-field dosimetry.
• Applied the Daisy Chaining method for correction.
• Monitored diode detector response for over-response indicating defects.

Main Results:

• The study identified a defective diode detector that showed over-response, rendering it unsuitable for measurements.
• This highlights the critical need for rigorous performance verification of diode detectors before use.
• The Daisy Chaining method's applicability is contingent on the diode detector's proper functioning.

Conclusions:

• Diode detectors can potentially be used for small-field dosimetry with the Daisy Chaining method, provided they are functioning correctly.
• Regular quality assurance and performance checks of diode detectors are essential to ensure accurate radiotherapy dosimetry.
• The scarcity of diamond detectors necessitates reliable methods for utilizing alternative detectors like diodes in clinical settings.