An in vivo investigative protocol for HDR prostate brachytherapy using urethral and rectal thermoluminescence dosimetry

Abstract

PURPOSE: To develop an in vivo dosimetry based investigative action level relevant for a corrective protocol for HDR brachytherapy boost treatment. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The dose delivered to points within the urethra and rectum was measured using TLD in vivo dosimetry in 56 patients. Comparisons between the urethral and rectal measurements and TPS calculations showed differences, which are related to the relative position of the implant and TLD trains, and allowed shifts of implant position relative to the prostate to be estimated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of rectal dose measurements is consistent with implant movement, which was previously only identified with the urethral data. ..