Dosimetry for californium-252 (²⁵²cf) neutron-emitting brachytherapy sources and encapsulation, storage, and clinical delivery thereof

摘要

The present invention discloses a methodology for the characterization and determination of mixed-field dosimetry for ²⁵²Cf Applicator Tube (AT)-type medical sources, utilizing ionization chambers, GM counters, and Monte Carlo methods. Unlike the previous methodologies, the present invention discloses a specification of dose to muscle, rather than dose to water, for clinical dosimetry of ²⁵²Cf medical sources. A dosimetry protocol, similar to that utilized for ICRU-45, with parameters determined specifically for ²⁵²Cf brachytherapy is disclosed. Neutron isodose distributions and data necessary for clinical implementation of ²⁵²Cf AT sources are also disclosed herein. Additionally, novel methods for the encapsulation, storage, and delivery/implantation of ²⁵²Cf radionuclide sources are disclosed.