Tungsten Collimator Research Articles

Reconstruction of multiple-pinhole micro-SPECT data using origin ensembles.

The authors are currently developing a dual-resolution multiple-pinhole microSPECT imaging system based on three large NaI(Tl) gamma cameras. Two multiple-pinhole tungsten collimator tubes will be used sequentially for whole-body "scout" imaging of a mouse, followed by high-resolution (hi-res) imaging of an organ of interest, such as the heart or brain. Ideally, the whole-body image will be reconstructed in real time such that data need only be acquired until the area of interest can be visualized well-enough to determine positioning for the hi-res scan. The authors investigated the utility of the origin ensemble (OE) algorithm for online and offline reconstructions of the scout data. This algorithm operates directly in image space, and can provide estimates of image uncertainty, along with reconstructed images. Techniques for accelerating the OE reconstruction were also introduced and evaluated. System matrices were calculated for our 39-pinhole scout collimator design. SPECT projections were simulated for a range of count levels using the MOBY digital mouse phantom. Simulated data were used for a comparison of OE and maximum-likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) reconstructions. The OE algorithm convergence was evaluated by calculating the total-image entropy and by measuring the counts in a volume-of-interest (VOI) containing the heart. Total-image entropy was also calculated for simulated MOBY data reconstructed using OE with various levels of parallelization. For VOI measurements in the heart, liver, bladder, and soft-tissue, MLEM and OE reconstructed images agreed within 6%. Image entropy converged after ∼2000 iterations of OE, while the counts in the heart converged earlier at ∼200 iterations of OE. An accelerated version of OE completed 1000 iterations in <9 min for a 6.8M count data set, with some loss of image entropy performance, whereas the same dataset required ∼79 min to complete 1000 iterations of conventional OE. A combination of the two methods showed decreased reconstruction time and no loss of performance when compared to conventional OE alone. OE-reconstructed images were found to be quantitatively and qualitatively similar to MLEM, yet OE also provided estimates of image uncertainty. Some acceleration of the reconstruction can be gained through the use of parallel computing. The OE algorithm is useful for reconstructing multiple-pinhole SPECT data and can be easily modified for real-time reconstruction.

Optimization of minibeam generation by mechanical collimation in proton minibeam radiation therapy

Introduction The dose tolerances of normal tissues continue being the main barrier in radiotherapy. To lower it, we recently proposed a novel concept: proton minibeam radiation therapy (pMBRT). It allies the inherent advantages of protons with the normal tissue preservation observed when irradiated with submillimetric spatially fractionated beams. The tumor receives a homogeneous dose distribution, while normal tissues benefit from the spatial fractionation of the dose. Purpose We have recently implemented this technique at the Orsay proton therapy clinical center. This work aims at optimizing the minibeam generation by means of a mechanical collimation. Materials and methods Monte Carlo simulations (GATEv7.1) were used to evaluate different irradiation configurations, e.g. collimator dimensions and materials (Brass, Tungsten, Iron and Nickel). Clinically relevant energies were used. Neutron contamination, Peak-to-valley dose ratios (PVDR) and beam penumbras were used as figures-of-merit. Results The neutron dose due to the minibeam collimator was found to be lower than 0.002% of the primary dose. A tungsten collimator provides the higher PVDR, but the generated neutron yield is 3 times higher than in other materials. Brass seems to provide the best compromise between PVDR values and neutron contamination. Conclusion A mechanical collimation only increases the biologic neutron dose by 0.04% of the peak surface dose therefore it is suitable for pMBRT. An optimized collimation for pMBRT, providing the best compromise between a high PVDR and low neutron generation, has been obtained.

Sci‐Thur PM – Colourful Interactions: Highlights 01: Design to delivery of spatially fractionated mini‐beam canine radiotherapy

Spatial fractionation of radiation using arrays of narrow parallel micro‐planar beams (less than 1 mm), is a relatively new concept with many unknowns specifically within the underlying biology of cell death. A tungsten collimator has been designed to produce mini‐beams with a Varian linear accelerator for translational animal research into the effectiveness of spatial fractionation mini‐beam radiotherapy (MBRT). This work presents the treatment planning process and workflow for the application of MBRT treatments within a clinical study. For patient dose calculations, the MBRT collimator was incorporated into a Monte Carlo based treatment planning system called MMCTP. Treatment planning was split between Eclipse and MMCTP, as the field apertures were determined within Eclipse prior to being sent to MMCTP for dose calculations. The calculated plan was transferred back into Aria with updated MUs per field for patient treatment. Patients were positioned within a vac‐lock bag lying prone with a bite block and a thermoplastic mask to immobilize the head. Prior to treatment, a delivery verification plan was created within MMCTP. DQA output measurements of the treatment fields agreed with the calculated dose to within 1.5%. We have presented a workflow for MBRT treatments that include the planning technique, dose calculation method, DQA process and data integration into a record and verify system. The clinical study following this workflow represent the first series of linac based MBRT patients and depending on the clinical outcome of the study, our technique could be applied to human MBRT treatments.

High-resolution clustered pinhole 131Iodine SPECT imaging in mice

IntroductionHigh-resolution pre-clinical 131I SPECT can facilitate development of new radioiodine therapies for cancer. To this end, it is important to limit resolution-degrading effects of pinhole edge penetration by the high-energy γ-photons of iodine. Here we introduce, optimize and validate 131I SPECT performed with a dedicated high-energy clustered multi-pinhole collimator. MethodsA SPECT–CT system (VECTor/CT) with stationary gamma-detectors was equipped with a tungsten collimator with clustered pinholes. Images were reconstructed with pixel-based OSEM, using a dedicated 131I system matrix that models the distance- and energy-dependent resolution and sensitivity of each pinhole, as well as the intrinsic detector blurring and variable depth of interaction in the detector. The system performance was characterized with phantoms and in vivo static and dynamic 131I-NaI scans of mice. ResultsReconstructed image resolution reached 0.6mm, while quantitative accuracy measured with a 131I filled syringe reaches an accuracy of +3.6±3.5% of the gold standard value. In vivo mice scans illustrated a clear shape of the thyroid and biodistribution of 131I within the animal. Pharmacokinetics of 131I was assessed with 15-s time frames from the sequence of dynamic images and time–activity curves of 131I-NaI. ConclusionsHigh-resolution quantitative and fast dynamic 131I SPECT in mice is possible by means of a high-energy collimator and optimized system modeling. This enables analysis of 131I uptake even within small organs in mice, which can be highly valuable for development and optimization of targeted cancer therapies.

TU-FG-BRB-06: A Prompt Gamma-Ray Spectroscopy System for Clinical Studies of in Vivo Proton Range Verification

Purpose: We present a new system to perform prompt gamma-ray spectroscopy during proton pencil-beam scanning treatments, which enables in vivo verification of the proton range. This system will be used for the first clinical studies of this technology. Methods: After successful pre-clinical testing of prompt gamma-ray spectroscopy, a full scale system for clinical studies is now being assembled. Prompt gamma-rays will be detected during patient treatment using an array of 8 detector modules arranged behind a tungsten collimator. Each detector module consists of a lanthanum(III) bromide scintillator, a photomultiplier tube, and custom electronics for stable high voltage supply and signal amplification. A new real-time data acquisition and control system samples the signals from the detectors with analog-to-digital converters, analyses events of interest, and communicates with the beam delivery systems. The timing of the detected events was synchronized to the cyclotron radiofrequency and the pencil-beam delivery. Range verification is performed by matching measured energy- and timeresolved gamma-ray spectra to nuclear reaction models based on the clinical treatment plan. Experiments in phantoms were performed using clinical beams in order to assess the performance of the systems. Results: The experiments showed reliable real-time analysis of more than 10 million detector events per second. The individual detector modules acquired accurate energy- and time-resolved gamma-ray measurements at a rate of 1 million events per second, which is typical for beams delivered with a clinical dose rate. The data acquisition system successfully tracked the delivery of the scanned pencil-beams to determine the location of range deviations within the treatment field. Conclusion: A clinical system for proton range verification using prompt gamma-ray spectroscopy has been designed and is being prepared for use during patient treatments. We anticipate to start a first clinical study in the near future. This work was supported by the Federal Share of program income earned by Massachusetts; General Hospital on C06-CA059267, Proton Therapy Research and Treatment Center.

SU‐F‐T‐671: Effects of Collimator Material On Proton Minibeams

Purpose:To investigate the dosimetric effects of collimator material on spatially modulated proton minibeams (pMBRT). Methods: pMBRT holds promise to exhibit shallow depth normal‐tissue sparing effects similar to synchrotron based microbeams while also retaining potential for uniform dose distributions for tumor targets. TOPAS Monte Carlo simulations were performed for a 5cm thick multislit collimator with 0.3mm slits and 1mm center‐to‐center spacing for a 50.5MeV proton minibeam while varying collimator material between brass, tungsten, and iron. The collimator was placed both “flush” at the water phantom surface and at 5cm distance to investigate the effects on surface dose, peak‐to‐valley‐dose‐ratio (PVDR) and neutron contribution.Results:For flush placement, the neutron dose at the phantom surface for the tungsten collimator was approximately 20% higher than for brass and iron. This was not reflected in the overall surface dose, which was comparable for all materials due to the relatively low neutron contribution of &lt;0.1%. When the collimator was retracted, the overall neutron contribution was essentially identical for all three collimators. Surface dose dropped by ∼40% for all collimator materials with air gap compared to being flush with the phantom surface. This surface dose reduction was at the cost of increase in valley dose for all collimator materials due to increased angular divergence of the mini‐beams at the surface and their consequent geometric penumbra at depth. When the collimator was placed at distance from the phantom surface the PVDR decreased. The peak‐to‐entrance‐dose ratio was highest for the iron collimator with 5cm air gap. Conclusion: The dosimetric difference between the collimator materials is minimal despite the relatively higher neutron contribution at the phantom surface for the tungsten collimator when placed flush. The air gap between the collimator and phantom surface strongly influences all dosimetry parameters due to the influence of scatter on the narrow spatial modulation.

SU-G-BRB-15: Verifications of Absolute and Relative Dosimetry of a Novel Stereotactic Breast Device: GammaPodTM

Purpose: A dedicated stereotactic breast radiotherapy device, GammaPod, was developed to treat early stage breast cancer. The first clinical unit was installed and commissioned at University of Maryland. We report our methodology of absolute dosimetry in multiple calibration conditions and dosimetric verifications of treatment plans produced by the system. Methods: GammaPod unit is comprised of a rotating hemi-spherical source carrier containing 36 Co-60 sources and a concentric tungsten collimator providing beams of 15 and 25 mm. Absolute dose calibration formalism was developed with modifications to AAPM protocols for unique geometry and different calibration medium (acrylic, polyethylene or liquid water). Breast cup-size specific and collimator output factors were measured and verified with respect to Monte-Carlo simulations for single isocenter plans. Multiple isocenter plans were generated for various target size, location and cup-sizes in phantoms and 20 breast cancer patients images. Stereotactic mini-farmer chamber, OSL and TLD detectors as well as radio-chromic films were used for dosimetric measurements. Results: At the time of calibration (1/14/2016), absolute dose rate of the GammaPod was established to be 2.10 Gy/min in acrylic for 25 mm for sources installed in March 2011. Output factor for 15 mm collimator was measured to be 0.950. Absolute dose calibration was independently verified by IROC-Houston with a TLD/Institution ratio of 0.99. Cup size specific output measurements in liquid water for single isocenter were found to be within 3.0% of MC simulations. Point-dose measurements of multiple isocenter treatment plans were found to be within −1.0 ± 1.2 % of treatment planning system while 2-dimensional gamma analysis yielded a pass rate of 97.9 ± 2.2 % using gamma criteria of 3% and 2mm. Conclusion: The first GammaPod treatment unit for breast stereotactic radiotherapy was successfully installed, calibrated and commissioned for patient treatments. An absolute dosimetry and dosimetric verification protocols were successfully created.

Neutronics analysis for the ITER core imaging X-ray spectrometer

This paper presents new results of the MCNP neutronics analysis for the core imaging X-ray spectrometer (CIXS) system of the ITER Equatorial Port Plug #17 (EPP#17). Substantial radiation shielding design improvements of the CIXS system have been suggested as the outcomes of this analysis. These suggested improvements allow reaching two major goals: (1) radiation protection of the CIXS Port Interspace (PI) to provide personnel access for maintenance of the vacuum extension flange; (2) reduction of the neutron and gamma loads on the detectors to reduce the need for maintenance itself. By implementing the improvements in our models such as filling void spaces around the CIXS beams with boron carbide and inserting the tungsten collimators in the narrowed beam channel, we were able to reduce the Shut-Down Dose Rate (SDDR) in the PI by 100× from 2 mSv/h in the original CIXS design to 20 microSv/h. In case of non-changed MCNP geometry, the D1S method was applied in calculations of SDDR. To allow the maintenance access to the flange, a part of shielding was removed, therefore the R2Smesh methodology was applied instead of D1S. During the maintenance access of CIXS from the PI side, a screen plate was proposed to introduce behind which a worker receives much less SDDR.

BrachyView, a novel in‐body imaging system for HDR prostate brachytherapy: Experimental evaluation

This paper presents initial experimental results from a prototype of high dose rate (HDR) BrachyView, a novel in-body source tracking system for HDR brachytherapy based on a multipinhole tungsten collimator and a high resolution pixellated silicon detector array. The probe and its associated position estimation algorithms are validated and a comprehensive evaluation of the accuracy of its position estimation capabilities is presented. The HDR brachytherapy source is moved through a sequence of positions in a prostate phantom, for various displacements in x, y, and z. For each position, multiple image acquisitions are performed, and source positions are reconstructed. Error estimates in each dimension are calculated at each source position and combined to calculate overall positioning errors. Gafchromic film is used to validate the accuracy of source placement within the phantom. More than 90% of evaluated source positions were estimated with an error of less than one millimeter, with the worst-case error being 1.3 mm. Experimental results were in close agreement with previously published Monte Carlo simulation results. The prototype of HDR BrachyView demonstrates a satisfactory level of accuracy in its source position estimation, and additional improvements are achievable with further refinement of HDR BrachyView's image processing algorithms.

Simulated Design Strategies for SPECT Collimators to Reduce the Eddy Currents Induced by MRI Gradient Fields

Combining single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires the insertion of highly conductive SPECT collimators inside the MRI scanner, resulting in an induced eddy current disturbing the combined system. We reduced the eddy currents due to the insert of a novel tungsten collimator inside transverse and longitudinal gradient coils. The collimator was produced with metal additive manufacturing, that is part of a microSPECT insert for a preclinical SPECT/MRI scanner. We characterized the induced magnetic field due to the gradient field and adapted the collimators to reduce the induced eddy currents. We modeled the x-, y-, and z-gradient coil and the different collimator designs and simulated them with FEKO, a three-dimensional method of moments / finite element methods (MoM/FEM) full-wave simulation tool. We used a time analysis approach to generate the pulsed magnetic field gradient. Simulation results show that the maximum induced field can be reduced by 50.82% in the final design bringing the maximum induced magnetic field to less than 2% of the applied gradient for all the gradient coils. The numerical model was validated with measurements and was proposed as a tool for studying the effect of a SPECT collimator within the MRI gradient coils.

Development of ITER diagnostics: Neutronic analysis and radiation hardness

The paper is dedicated to the problems of ITER diagnostics caused by effects of radiation from hot DT plasma. An effective nuclear shielding must be arranged in diagnostic port plugs to meet the nuclear safety requirements and to provide reliable operation of the diagnostics. This task can be solved with the help of neutronic analysis of the diagnostics environment within the port plugs at the design stage. Problems of neutronic calculations are demonstrated for the 11th equatorial port plug. The numerical simulation includes the calculations of neutron fluxes in the port-plug and in the interspace. Options for nuclear shielding, such as tungsten collimator, boron carbide and water moderators, stainless steel and lead screens are considered. Data on neutron fluxes along diagnostic labyrinths allow to define radiation hardness requirements for the diagnostic components and to specify their materials. Options for windows and lenses materials for optical diagnostics are described. The results of irradiation of flint and silica glasses in nuclear reactor have shown that silica KU-1 and KS-4V retain transparency in visible range after neutron fluence of 1017cm−2. Flints required for achromatic objectives have much less radiation hardness about 5×1014n/cm2.

WE‐EF‐303‐03: A New Aperture‐Based Imaging System for Prompt‐Gamma Range Verification of Proton Beam Therapy

Purpose:To develop and characterize a novel aperture‐based imaging system for high‐energy gamma‐rays. This collimated system will provide 2‐dimensional imaging capability for verification of proton beam range and Bragg peak dose via prompt‐gamma detection.Methods:A multi‐knife‐edge slit collimator has been designed, constructed, and characterized via simulations and experimental measurements. The 20×20×7.5 cm3 tungsten collimator and accompanying LSO scintillation detector were simulated using the TOPAS Geant4 ‐based Monte Carlo package. Iterative reconstruction methods were combined with point response functions to characterize the imaging performance of the system. The response of the system has begun to be characterized experimentally as well, using 2.6 MeV gamma‐rays from Th‐228.Results:Both simulation and experimental results indicate that this collimated system provides 2‐D imaging capability in the energy range of interest for prompt‐gamma dose verification. In the current configuration, with collimator to source distance of 13 cm, image reconstruction of point sources resulted in spatial resolution (FWHM) of approximately 4 mm in both x‐and y‐directions in the imaging plane. The accuracy of positioning the point sources is less than 1 mm.Conclusion:This work has characterized, via simulation and measurements, a novel multi‐knife‐edge slit collimator in front of a more conventional position‐sensitive LSO scintillator detector. The multi‐slit pattern is designed to increase detection efficiency and provide spatial information in 2‐dimensions ‐‐ an improvement over a single‐slit collimator design. The thickness and density of the collimator will allow this detection system to perform well in an environment with high gamma flux, while ultimately providing peak determination accuracy on the order of 1 mm.This material is based upon work supported by the Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration under Award Number: DE‐NA0000979 through the Nuclear Science and Security Consortium.

TH-CD-304-04: Absolute Dose Calibration of the First Stereotactic Breast Radiotherapy Device: GammaPod

Purpose: A dedicated stereotactic breast radiotherapy device, GammaPod, was developed to treat early stage breast cancer. The first clinical GammaPod unit is currently being commissioned to treat its first patient in summer 2015. We provide an absorbed dose calibration formalism following AAPM protocols with modifications for the calibration medium and unique geometry of GammaPod. We also provide cross-comparison of the dosimetric calibration using different types of dosimeters. Methods: GammaPod is comprised of a rotating hemi-spherical source carrier containing 36 Co-60 sources and a concentric rotating tungsten collimator providing beam diameters of 1.5 and 2.5 cm. A solid breast phantom made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (density 0.935 g/cm3) with an effective depth of 7cm is used for absolute dose calibration. Due to the non-water equivalent medium, we utilized the former AAPM TG-21 protocol, but cross-compared the calibration with TG-51 calibrated OSLD and radiochromic film dosimeters. Polyethylene medium and chamber-specific calibration parameters are derived and provided for Exradin A-18 and Capintec PR-05P ionization chambers. Results: The first clinical unit was installed with a total Co-60 activity of 2672 Ci in November 2014. Maximum dose rate was determined to be 2.76 Gy/min and 2.63 Gy/min for 2.5 and 1.5 cm collimators respectively at 7 cm depth. The determination of Ngas and appropriate polyethylene dosimetric quantities (stopping power and absorption coefficient ratios) is performed using NIST data tables and supplied as reference for calibration of subsequent units. Calibration crosscheck was accomplished with OSLD and radiochromic films, both with secondary TG-51 based calibrations, yielding relative dose differences less than 1%. Conclusion: The first GammaPod treatment unit for breast stereotactic radiotherapy was successfully installed and calibrated for commencement of patient treatments in 2015. An absolute dose calibration formalism was established for the unique geometry of GammaPod and the method is validated with different detectors. P Hoban, Y Niu and C Yu are employees of Xcision Medical Systems.

Compatibility of metal additive manufactured tungsten collimator for SPECT/MRI integration.

We optimized the MR-compatibility of a novel tungsten collimator, produced with metal additive manufacturing that is part of a microSPECT insert for a preclinical SPECT/MRI scanner. We characterized the current density due to the gradient field and adapted the collimators by smart design to reduce the induced eddy currents. The z-gradient coil and the collimator were modeled with SEMCAD. The gradient strength was 510 mT/m, the gradient efficiency was about 3.4 mT/m/A. The setup was simulated with a working frequency of 10 kHz. The system consists of 7 identical collimators and digital silicon photomultipliers assembled in a ring. We evaluated the global reduction in current density J (reduction) based on the sum of all current densities in the collimator. We applied the following optimizations on the collimator: 1. We reduced the excessive material in the flanges. 2. We applied horizontal slits of 2 mm in the collimator surface. 3. We reduced material in the core; the photons are attenuated before they reach the core. The collimator will need a supporting structure. 4. The supporting structure can be avoided by using two vertical slits in the middle of the collimator. 5. We used a Z-shaped slit instead of the vertical slit. Results of simulations show that smaller flanges reduce the current density with 23%. The horizontal slits reduce the eddy currents with 6%. Using less material in the core or applying vertical slits results in the same reduction of current density. However, the vertical slits are cheaper because a hollow collimator requires supporting structures during production. Both can be combined if z-shaped slits are used to prevent attenuation problems. The reduction is then 27%. Finally, when all previous adaptations are combined, the reduction in eddy currents is about 56.3%.

Neutron gamma fraction imaging: Detection, location and identification of neutron sources

In this paper imaging of neutron sources and identification and separation of a neutron source from another neutron source is described. The system is based upon organic liquid scintillator detector, tungsten collimator, bespoke fast digitiser and adjustable equatorial mount. Three environments have been investigated with this setup corresponding to an AmBe neutron source, a 252Cf neutron source and both sources together separated in space. In each case, events are detected, digitised, discriminated and radiation images plotted corresponding to the area investigated. The visualised neutron count distributions clearly locate the neutron source and, relative gamma to neutron (or neutron to gamma) fraction images aid in discriminating AmBe sources from 252Cf source. The measurements were performed in the low scatter facility of the National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, UK.

Development of a prototype scintillator-based portable γ-ray imager with coded aperture for intraoperative applications

In surgical treatment, the intraoperative detection of tissues is becoming important in order to localize malignant functionality. Visual inspection, which is mostly used, results in lower contrast whereas dual inspection with radio and optical sensors is more promising for accurate detection. A scintillator-based portable gamma-ray imager with a coded aperture has been designed and fabricated for exploring the use of coded-aperture imaging in intraoperative applications. The gamma-ray detector is composed of a 12×12 array of 2×2×10mm3 Ce:GAGG (Ce doped Gd3Al2Ga3O12) crystals individually coupled to a 12×12 avalanche photodiode (APD) array. The APDs are individually read out using a custom-designed readout system using a time-over-threshold application-specific integrated circuit and field-programmable gate array. The coded aperture consists of M-array based holes of 0.5mm size on a 0.3-mm thickness tungsten collimator. The imaging performance in the x, y, and z directions is measured and characterized for 122-keV gamma rays.

A γ probe for radionuclide diagnostics of cancer

A miniature γ probe for nuclear medicine based on a LaBr3:Ce scintillation crystal and a silicon photomultiplier is described. The γ ray detection efficiency is 29% for 137Cs (662 keV) and 70% for 57Co (122 keV). The spatial resolution and selectivity measured with a tungsten collimator for 57Co are 8 mm and 26°, respectively.

Analysis of eddy currents induced by transverse and longitudinal gradient coils in different tungsten collimators geometries for SPECT/MRI integration.

We investigated the temporal variation of the induced magnetic field due to the transverse and the longitudinal gradient coils in tungsten collimators arranged in hexagonal and pentagonal geometries with and without gaps between the collimators. We modeled x-, y-, and z-gradient coils and different arrangements of single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) collimators using FEKO, a three-dimensional electromagnetic simulation tool. A time analysis approach was used to generate the pulsed magnetic field gradient. The approach was validated with measurements using a 7T MRI scanner. Simulations showed an induced magnetic field representing 4.66% and 0.87% of the applied gradient field (gradient strength = 500 mT/m) for longitudinal and transverse gradient coils, respectively. These values can be reduced by 75% by adding gaps between the collimators for the pentagonal arrangement, bringing the maximum induced magnetic field to less than 2% of the applied gradient for all of the gradient coils. Characterization of the maximum induced magnetic field shows that by adding gaps between the collimators for an integrated SPECT/MRI system, eddy currents can be corrected by the MRI system to avoid artifact. The numerical model was validated and was proposed as a tool for studying the effect of a SPECT collimator within the MRI gradient coils.

Radiation dose enhancement at tissue-tungsten interfaces in HDR brachytherapy

HDR BrachyView is a novel in-body dosimetric imaging system for real-time monitoring and verification of the source position in high dose rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy treatment. It is based on a high-resolution pixelated detector array with a semi-cylindrical multi-pinhole tungsten collimator and is designed to fit inside a compact rectal probe, and is able to resolve the 3D position of the source with a maximum error of 1.5 mm. This paper presents an evaluation of the additional dose that will be delivered to the patient as a result of backscatter radiation from the collimator. Monte Carlo simulations of planar and cylindrical collimators embedded in a tissue-equivalent phantom were performed using Geant4, with an 192Ir source placed at two different source-collimator distances. The planar configuration was replicated experimentally to validate the simulations, with a MOSkin dosimetry probe used to measure dose at three distances from the collimator. For the cylindrical collimator simulation, backscatter dose enhancement was calculated as a function of axial and azimuthal displacement, and dose distribution maps were generated at three distances from the collimator surface. Although significant backscatter dose enhancement was observed for both geometries immediately adjacent to the collimator, simulations and experiments indicate that backscatter dose is negligible at distances beyond 1 mm from the collimator. Since HDR BrachyView is enclosed within a 1 mm thick tissue-equivalent plastic shell, all backscatter radiation resulting from its use will therefore be absorbed before reaching the rectal wall or other tissues. dosimetry, brachytherapy, HDR

Temporal analysis of Z-Gradient coil eddy currents in tungsten collimator with different resistivities for SPECT/MRI

Combining Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) results in an interaction of the time-varying magnetic field gradients with the highly conducting tungsten collimator, which generates a secondary magnetic field causing spatial distortions in reconstructed MR images. Accurate simulations are important for the characterization of these eddy currents and to further optimize the gradient coils and the collimator design. This study investigated the temporal variations of eddy currents in a tungsten collimator for pre-clinical SPECT/MRI due to only the z-gradient coil for different resistivities of tungsten, which can be obtained through additive manufacturing. We modeled a z-gradient coil and a collimator using FEKO, a 3D electromagnetic simulation tool. A time analysis approach was used to generate the pulsed magnetic field gradient. The approach was validated with measurements using a 7T MRI scanner. Simulations show that when tungsten with high resistivity (ρ=370 nΩ.m) is used, eddy currents generate an added magnetic field representing 1.72 % of the nominal gradient field in a Field Of View (FOV) of 3 cm. This percentage increases rapidly for tungsten with lower resistivities, which was expected since a higher resistivity implies lower current densities. A higher density of tungsten is preferred leading to low resistivity but results in stronger induced eddy currents. A compromise needs to be made between the eddy currents strength and the design of the collimator. Using the insights gained from these simulations, the next step is to optimize the design of the gradient coils and the collimator to further reduce the eddy current effects.