A surface bolus material for high-energy photon and electron therapy

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Effective radiation therapy requires precise dose delivery.
• Bolus materials are crucial for compensating for surface irregularities and enhancing dose to superficial tumors.
• Existing bolus materials may have limitations in terms of properties or cost.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel bolus material for its suitability in high-energy photon and electron therapy.
• To assess key physical and practical qualities of the bolus material.

Main Methods:

• The bolus material's properties were assessed, including flexibility, transparency, tissue equivalence, high-dose stability, durability, toxicity, cleanability, flammability, and cost.
• Radiation interactions were evaluated using a parallel-plate ionization chamber with 60Co, 4-MV, and 10-MV photons, and 6-MeV and 18-MeV electrons.

Main Results:

• The bolus material demonstrated good flexibility, transparency, and stability under high radiation doses.
• Maximum deviation from water-equivalent values was minimal, approximately 2 mm for 6-MeV electrons.
• The material is available in precise thickness sheets, easily customizable for complex treatment plans.

Conclusions:

• The described bolus material is a viable and effective option for radiation therapy.
• Its properties make it suitable for use with high-energy photons and electrons.
• The material offers a practical, cost-effective solution for improving dose distribution in radiation oncology.