Physics of Modern Brachytherapy for Oncology

<p>Brachytherapy has become the modality of choice for several cancer localizations minimizing the possibility of unacceptable risks for healthy tissues and providing a more cost-effective and convenient treatment for patients. Written by leading experts in the physics development and implementation of brachytherapy The Physics of Modern Brachytherapy for Oncology discusses the subject in detail covering its definition the basic physics of radiation interaction with matter radionuclides sources and source production calibration and dosimetry protocols as well as experimental dosimetry methods appropriate for practical use. <br><br>Logically organized the book begins with basic information including quantities and units followed by fundamental atomic and nuclear physics. It also provides the historical background of brachytherapy physics. The next several chapters discuss the radionuclides used in brachytherapy reflecting upon past (radium) present (iridium or cobalt) and future (ytterbium) methods. The book proceeds to examine source calibration and dosimetry protocols for dose rate calculation while the final chapters explore more recent processes including Monte Carlo-aided experimental and gel dosimetry. The appendices provide useful tables of isotopes unit conversions and physical constants brachytherapy sources TG-43 and TG-43 U1 data tables and dose rate tables.<br><br>Detailing the physics behind brachytherapy treatment The Physics of Modern Brachytherapy for Oncology is essential reading for researchers practicing radiation oncologists and medical physicists who want to keep abreast of the developments in this changing field as well as for postgraduate students in medical physics.</p>