Monte Carlo simulation of electron modes of a Siemens Primus linac (8, 12 and 14 MeV)

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundElectron mode is used for treatment of superficial tumours in linac-based radiotherapy.PurposeThe aim of present study is simulation of 8, 12 and 14 MeV electrons from a Siemens Primus linac using MCNPX Monte Carlo (MC) code and verification of the results based on comparison of the results with the measured data.Materials and methodsElectron mode for 8, 12 and 14 MeV electron energies of a Siemens Primus linac was simulated using MCNPX MC code. Percent depth dose (PDD) data for 10 × 10, 15 × 15 and 25 × 25 cm2 applicators obtained from MC simulations were compared with the corresponding measured data.ResultsGamma index values were less than unity in most of points for all the above-mentioned energies and applicators. However, for 25 × 25 cm2 applicator in 8 MeV energy, 10 × 10 cm2 applicator and 15 × 15 cm2 applicator in 14 MeV energy, there were four data points with gamma indices higher than unity. However among these data points, there are a number of cases with relatively large value of gamma index, these cases are positioned on the bremsstrahlung tail of the PDD curve which is not normally used in treatment planning.ConclusionThere was good agreement between the results of MC simulations developed in this study and the measured values. The obtained simulation programmes can be used in dosimetry of electron mode of Siemens Primus linac in the cases in which it is not easily feasible to perform experimental in-phantom measurements.