Introduction
Download Survey on TRS 398
A key step in the radiotherapy process is the requirement for consistent reference dosimetry traceable to metrological primary standards and to enable common procedures within a country to be followed for reference dosimetry. For conventional radiotherapy with external beams this has been achieved by adopting dosimetry protocols and Codes of Practice such as IAEA TRS 398. The data in IAEA TRS 398
was prepared in the mid-1990s, and since that date a number of new developments have taken place or will be implemented in the near future. Among them can be mentioned:
- ICRU report committee 20 on key data for measurement standards in the dosimetry of ionizing radiation is ready to release a comprehensive set of new data for fundamental quantities that will impact radiation metrology standards and reference dosimetry for radiotherapy beams.
- A number of new technologies for radiotherapy have been implemented in the field, mostly on MV photon beams, protons and heavier ions that require guidance and data for end users.
- New detectors are now commercially available that require data in their clinical practice.
- With regard to the dosimetry of kV x-rays, not only the provision of TRS-398 for having N D,w calibrations in these beams are still pending from becoming a reality, but also there were no specific data recommended. Taking into account that a major key data change is due to cross sections for the photoelectric effect, a revision of TRS-398 should include this type of beams.
- TRS-398 also included recommendations for the dosimetry of radiotherapy beams in non-standard conditions, i.e. for beams smaller than 10cmx10cm. Recent developments for small fields should be also be taken into account, at least in a summarized perspective.
Based on these major elements it has been decided that IAEA TRS 398 should be updated to take into account the issues noted above along with other improvements. While we are updating TRS 398 we would like to take into account users experience of the IAEA TRS 398 and would therefore ask for feedback. I would therefore be grateful if you could complete the questionnaire below.
Based on your experience of using IAEA TRS 398, if you had a choice what 3 aspects would you change? Please be as specific as you can and state if possible the Chapter in IAEA TRS 398 that your comment refers to.
Note: Please send the survey document to Mr. Kinhikar at rkinhikar@gmail.com