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Biomedical subjects

I A Lerch

Publications and source records attributed to I A Lerch.

23 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

Extended expression for tissue-maximum ratio fitted to the Varian Clinac-4 and Clinac-6 accelerators.

An expression which generates tissue maximum ratio (TMR) data for the Varian Clinac-4 and Clinac-6 accelerators is presented. This semiempirical expression can be programmed easily for radiotherapy computer systems or the new generation of scientific calculators. Our technique leads to good agreement with the published data, as demonstrated by a total average percent deviation of the measured TMR values of -0.115% for the Clinac-4 and -0.002% for the Clinac-6.

Particle Accelerators↗

Development of optical process for accessing three-dimensional patient topology.

A commercial optical system developed by Solid Photography, Inc., has been used to generate precise paraffin--polyethylene tissue compensators. A program with the objective of constructing a medical facility has been undertaken to access patient topology for treatment planning, tissue-compensator fabrication, and patient positioning verification on the treatment table. Currently, patients are taken to a specially equipped studio where a series of microprocessor-controlled reticles are projected on the surface to be analyzed and photographs are taken automatically for computer processing. The topology data then drives a machine tool to sculpt the tissue compensators and may be transmitted via acoustic-coupled terminals to a treatment-planning computer at the Medical Center. The tissue compensators have been found to conform accurately to patient contours. At present, data bases can be generated to accommodate volumes of approximately 70,000 cm3.

Models, Structural↗

Long-term use of an isotope check source for verification of ion chamber calibration.

A radioactive check source is recommended for operational and constancy checks of dosimetry systems used for the calibration of therapeutic x-ray generators, including linear accelerators. Eight years of data have been analyzed for two ion chambers (and their associated electrometers) irradiated at fixed geometry in such a device. These dosimetry systems have also been calibrated every 2 years at a single Accredited Dosimetry Calibration Laboratory. Our analysis suggests that when a check source is used, and the results are consistent, the interval between formal calibrations can be lengthened.

Humans↗