Monte Carlo-based investigation of effect of inhomogeneity in brachytherapy dose calculations - Part II

Brachytherapy refers to a treatment modality for treatment of cancer or benign tumors in which the sealed radiation sources are virtually in direct contact with the tumour, either externally or internally, so as to produce carefully defined irradiation at very short distances. There are three subdivisions in this technique: Interstitial brachytherapy: In this case the sources are introduced surgically into tissues. The radiation sources used are 192Ir, 125I, 169Yb and 103Pd. Intracavitary brachytherapy: In this case the sources are placed in natural body orifices (cervix and esophagus). This technique involves careful positioning of sources either manually or using remote afterloading systems. The radiation sources used are 60Co, 137Cs and 192Ir. Intravascular brachytherapy: Intravascular brachytherapy is a promising technology with the potential to reduce restenosis. The target sites identified in this therapy system are saphenous femoral artery lesions, renal artery stenosis, patients who are undergoing hemodialysis with the arteriovenous graft stenosis, and a subclavian or brachiocephalic vein. Intravascular brachytherapy in the management of cardiovascular disease has a special name known as intracoronary brachytherapy, where the target site identified is coronary vessels. Some of the possible radiation sources that are used/recommended are 192Ir, 125I and 103Pd