Brachytherapy treatment verification using gamma radiation from the internal treatment source combined with an imaging panel—a phantom study

Abstract Brachytherapy has an excellent clinical outcome for different treatment sites. However, in vivo verification is not performed the majority of hospitals due to lack proper monitoring systems. This study investigates use imaging panel (IP) and photons emitted by a high dose rate (HDR) 192 Ir source track motion obtain some information related patient anatomy. The feasibility this approach was studied delivery 3D printed phantom that mimicks prostate patient. A designed with template needle insertion, cavity (‘rectum’) insert ultrasound probe, lateral cavities used place tissue-equivalent materials. CT images were acquired create HDR plans range dwell times, interdwell distances arrangements. Treatment verified IP placed at several positions around using radiopaque markers on outer surface register planning CT. All identified acquisition times ≤0.11 s (frame rates ≥ 9 fps). Interdwell (in relation IP) accuracy better than 0.1 cm. Radiopaque visible could be registration images. Uncertainties image (IP CT) between 0.4 sensitive tissue-mimicking composition showed boundaries improve verification. provided sufficient time spatial resolution real-time tracking allows results obtained indicate errors detected including swapped catheters, incorrect positions.