Neutron capture therapy with 235U seeds.
A combination of brachytherapy and neutron capture therapy has been evaluated using 235U metal seeds and external neutron beam irradiation. When thermal neutrons are absorbed by 235U, high-energy neutrons and gamma rays are produced and some of these deposit energy in surrounding tissue. A Monte Carlo program, using the code MCNP, has been used to evaluate two sizes of 235U seeds in a water phantom. The results of flux suppression around the seeds and dose distributions are illustrated and discussed. The results show that high doses can be delivered in a relatively short time by using 235U seeds with neutron capture therapy. This therapy with multiple needles or seeds can be envisioned as a substitute for traditional brachytherapy to give an effective killing dose.
Liu
H B
HB
Nuclear Engineering Program, University of Missouri-Columbia 65211.
Brugger
R M
RM
Shih
J L
JL
D001918:Brachytherapy / Q000379:methods; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D009502:Neutrons; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D014501:Uranium / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014501:Uranium