[Interstitial neutron therapy using flexible 252Cf sources]

The authors describe the technique of interstitial neutron therapy using 252Cf flexible sources developed at the clinic of the Research Institute of Medical Radiology, USSR AMS. Altogether 75 patients with head and neck tumors of different site and spread were treated. The characteristics of the 252Cf flexible sources and the neutron radiation dose field distribution are provided. This technique is based upon the utilization of the afterloading principle. Clinical observations are illustrated by different uses of flexible sources (loop-shaped, planar, radiosurgical). Dosimetry methods are described, general problems of radiation safety are considered. A conclusion has been made of a possibility to extend indications to interstitial therapy using 252Cf flexible sources.