EGS4 dosimetry calculations for cylindrically symmetric brachytherapy sources

Computer algorithms for electron binding correction to Compton scattering and for detailed simulation of K-edge characteristic x-ray production were incorporated into EGS4 unix version 2.0. Based on detailed modelling of the internal structures of sources, the modified version was used to calculate dose rate constants, radial dose functions, and anisotropy functions on the long axis for an 125I model 6711 source, 169Yb Type 5 and Type 8 sources, and a stainless steel clad (SS) 192Ir source. The geometry of these sources is cylindrically symmetric. Calculated results are generally in good agreement with corresponding values recommended by TG-43 and Monte Carlo results published by other authors. The influence of electron binding in Compton scattering on the calculated dose distribution for an 125I model 6711 source in water, and of different characteristic x-ray production models for 125I model 6711 and 192Ir SS sources, were also studied.