Stereotactic irradiation therapy. Physical and dosimetric problems

J Neurosurg Sci. 1989 Jan-Mar;33(1):135-9.

Abstract

In stereotactic irradiation by external beams there are many problems involved with dosimetry of small fields, three-dimensional representation of dose distribution, radiobiological involvement of tissue response to total dose and fractionation. Dosimetric problems arise by critical dimension of dosimetric chambers and by difficulties of films calibration. The amount of data required for a correct three-dimensional simulation of isodose curves, tumor and anatomical structures require a very speed computer system, sophisticated computer graphic techniques and calculation algorithm. By use the linear quadratic model of cell survival, maps of combined dose and biological effect (isoeffect curves) are also obtained.

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Radiometry
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted
  • Stereotaxic Techniques
  • Time Factors