Application of spherical micro diodes for brachytherapy dosimetry

The research presented in this paper demonstrates the feasibility and the advantages of using spherical micro diodes for radiation dosimetry. The spherical symmetry of the diode response is demonstrated, compared to that of planar diodes. The application of the spherical diode described here is for radiotherapy dosimetry, particularly brachytherapy. Measurements were done in PMMA phantoms. The advantage of the spherical diode is that it can be used for radiation measurement in a 4π geometry, it was demonstrated by measurements in both axial and azimuthal planes. The diodes were found to respond equally to radiation coming from all directions, directly from the source or due to scattered radiation within the medium. In the present work 1.8 mm diameter silicone diodes were used. The small size of these spherical diodes provides local dose measurement and can be used for in situ dosimetry while treatment takes place. Treatment planning correction can be made accordingly. Commercially available seeds of the isotopes I125 and Pd103 were used as radiation sources. The spherical diodes response was compared with that of planar diodes XRB generally used for UV and X-ray dosimetry, and with TLD measurements. We have also compared the measured results with Monte Carlo simulation, applying the MCNP code and with calculations shown in the TG-43 report.