Uniform irradiation of irregularly shaped cavities for photodynamic therapy

Phys Med Biol. 1997 Mar;42(3):583-93. doi: 10.1088/0031-9155/42/3/010.

Abstract

It is difficult to achieve a uniform light distribution in irregularly shaped cavities. We have conducted a study on the use of hollow 'integrating' moulds for more uniform light delivery of photodynamic therapy in irregularly shaped cavities such as the oral cavity. Simple geometries such as a cubical box, a sphere, a cylinder and a 'bottle-neck' geometry have been investigated experimentally and the results have been compared with computed light distributions obtained using the 'radiosity method'. A high reflection coefficient of the mould and the best uniform direct irradiance possible on the inside of the mould were found to be important determinants for achieving a uniform light distribution.

MeSH terms

  • Health Physics / methods
  • Mathematics
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Photochemotherapy / methods*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage / standards
  • Scattering, Radiation