Feasibility of polymer gel dosimetry measurements in a dynamic porcine lung phantom

Abstract

A dynamic ex-vivo porcine lung phantom combined with polymer gel dosimetry is tested as a new tool to validate modern adaptive radiotherapy techniques (e.g. gating or tracking). The gel was inserted into the lung via a latex balloon to simulate a tumor. After irradiation, the location of the dose maximum was verified, however, the dose was higher than planned and a high background signal was seen. Potential reasons for this finding are the nonstandard conditions of gel handling. These conditions were systematically studied. Besides temperature, the material of the balloon seems to be of special importance. The results identify open issues that have to be addressed in future studies.