Skin dose determination for hypo-fractionated breast treatment using mixed photon and electron beams

Abstract

Skin complications have been an important factor in the dose prescription for breast radiotherapy. However, most treatment planning systems fail to accurately predict the dose at the surface for breast treatment planning. Recent advances in radiotherapy treatment techniques such as intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and energy- and intensity-modulated electron radiotherapy (MERT), and new treatment schemes, such as hypo-fractionated breast therapy have made the precise determination of the surface dose necessary.