Method of delivery of therapeutic dose of radiation to superficial neoplasms by brachytherapy

A new superficial brachytherapy applicator has been developed for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer. The proposed applicator demonstrates improved performance characteristics compared to existing counterparts, such as the Leipzig applicator. Key advantages include a reduced wall thickness at the base (1 mm versus 10 mm for the Leipzig applicator), enabling irradiation of tumors located near irregular skin surfaces, as well as a reduction in treatment time by a factor of 2.38–3.45. Dosimetric studies revealed a low dose gradient (up to 20%) within a distance of up to 3 mm from the applicator surface, ensuring more uniform dose distribution. Furthermore, the proposed applicator requires a smaller safety margin (2 mm versus 4 mm for the Leipzig applicator), which enhances positioning accuracy and patient comfort. Experiments were conducted using radiographic film and the Oncentra Brachy treatment planning system, confirming the efficacy and reliability of the development. The results demonstrate that the new applicator has the potential to increase throughput in radiotherapy departments and improve treatment quality for patients with superficial neoplasms .

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