Dosimetric feasibility study for an extracorporeal BNCT application on liver metastases at the TRIGA Mainz

This study investigates the dosimetric feasibility of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) of explanted livers in the thermal column of the research reactor in Mainz. The Monte Carlo code MCNP5 is used to calculate the biologically weighted dose for different ratios of the 10B-concentration in tumour to normal liver tissue. The simulation results show that dosimetric goals are only partially met. To guarantee effective BNCT treatment the organ has to be better shielded from all gamma radiation.

► Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate the potential for BNCT treatment at TRIGA Mainz. ► Simulation shows the necessity of gamma shielding for the organ from all sides. ► Secondary photons induced within the graphite contribute considerably to gamma dose.