Feasibility study of using MOSFET detectors for in vivo dosimetry during permanent low-dose-rate prostate implants

PurposeTo investigate the feasibility of using new micro-MOSFET detectors for QA and in vivo dosimetry of the urethra during transperineal interstitial permanent prostate implants (TIPPB).Methods and materialsThis study involves measurements for several patients who have undergone the implant procedure with iodine-125 seeds. A new micro-MOSFET detector is used as a tool for in vivo measurement of the initial dose rate within the urethra. MOSFETs are calibrated using a single special order calibration seed. The angular response is investigated in a 100 kVp X-ray beam.Resultsmicro-MOSFETs are found to have a calibration factor of 0.03 cGy/mV for low energy X-rays and a high isotropic response (within 2.5%). Prostate volume and shape changes during TIPPB due to edema caused by the trauma of needle insertion, making it difficult to achieve the planned implant geometry and hence the desired dose distribution. MOSFET measurements help us to evaluate the overall quality of the implant, by analyzing the maximum dose received by urethra, the prostate base coverage, the length of the prostatic urethra that is irradiated, and the apex coverage.ConclusionsWe demonstrate that ease of use, quick calibration and the instantaneous reading of accumulated dose make micro-MOSFETs feasible for in vivo dosimetry during TIPPB.