Real-time detection of fast and thermal neutrons in radiotherapy with CMOS sensors

Phys Med Biol. 2017 Mar 7;62(5):1920-1934. doi: 10.1088/1361-6560/aa5bc9.

Abstract

The peripheral dose distribution is a growing concern for the improvement of new external radiation modalities. Secondary particles, especially photo-neutrons produced by the accelerator, irradiate the patient more than tens of centimeters away from the tumor volume. However the out-of-field dose is still not estimated accurately by the treatment planning softwares. This study demonstrates the possibility of using a specially designed CMOS sensor for fast and thermal neutron monitoring in radiotherapy. The 14 microns-thick sensitive layer and the integrated electronic chain of the CMOS are particularly suitable for real-time measurements in γ/n mixed fields. An experimental field size dependency of the fast neutron production rate, supported by Monte Carlo simulations and CR-39 data, has been observed. This dependency points out the potential benefits of a real-time monitoring of fast and thermal neutron during beam intensity modulated radiation therapies.

MeSH terms

  • Fast Neutrons / therapeutic use*
  • Gamma Rays / therapeutic use
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Radiometry / instrumentation
  • Radiotherapy / instrumentation*
  • Radiotherapy / methods
  • Radiotherapy Dosage