Abstract ID: 210 Using Monte Carlo simulation as an experimental tool for training of medical physicists in a diagnostic radiological physics residency program

Abstract

The usefulness of Monte Carlo for solving problems in radiation transport has allowed many applications in the medical physics field. Particularly as a teaching aid, Monte Carlo can be used to demonstrate previously the effects of the interaction of radiation with matter, which can be switched on and off to observe its influence under different conditions of irradiation and geometry. Based on that, this study reports an experience with using of Monte Carlo simulation for training of medical physicists during a residency program in diagnostic radiological physics. The approach was implemented in the EGSnrc Monte Carlo code system [1] to an understanding of the factors affecting quality image and to reduction of patient exposure in radiographic examinations performed in various areas of diagnostic radiology. All simulation conditions were based on the cases provided by the Report of AAPM Task Group 195 [2] . Physical characteristics of primary and scattered X-ray spectra, quantities as radiation dose and contrast-to-noise ratio of imaging systems, among others, could be studied under different radiological conditions by changing the input parameters in the simulation. Results obtained with this approach facilitate resident’s experimental learning curve, contributing to anticipate the discussion about practical problems that would be found in clinical environment. The use of Monte Carlo simulations with educational purposes demonstrated be an efficient and flexible tool for training of medical physicists in a residency program.