title: A non-docking intraoperative electron beam applicator system.
abstract: A non-docking intraoperative radiation therapy electron beam applicator system for a linear accelerator has been designed to minimize the mechanical, electrical, and tumor visualization problems associated with a docking system. A number of technical innovations have been used in the design of this system. These include: (a) a new intraoperative radiation therapy cone design that gives a better dose uniformity in the treatment volume at all depths; (b) a collimation system which reduces the leakage radiation dose to tissues outside the intraoperative radiation therapy cone; (c) a non-docking system with a translational accuracy of 2 mm and a rotational accuracy of 0.5 degrees; and (d) a rigid clamping system for the cones. A comprehensive set of dosimetric characteristics of the intraoperative radiation therapy applicator system is presented.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Bodine Center for Cancer Treatment, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Palta
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Suntharalingam
mesh_terms: D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004583:Electrons; D006801:Humans; D007432:Intraoperative Period; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D010315:Particle Accelerators; D011882:Radiotherapy, High-Energy / Q000295:instrumentation*