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Optical fibre sensor for real-time in vivo dosimetry in low dose rate brachytherapy for prostate cancer
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Date
2025-12
Abstract
This thesis details the development of an optical fibre sensor for real-time in vivo monitoring during Low Dose Rate (LDR) brachytherapy seed implantation. The sensor, based on radioluminescence, uses scintillation materials embedded in the core of a PMMA plastic optical fibre. Different scintillators were initially evaluated for their suitability to the radiation levels used in brachytherapy. Terbium doped gadolinium oxysulphide (Gd₂O₂S:Tb) showed the highest sensitivity and repeatability and was chosen as the scintillator for further evaluation. The sensors demonstrate effective real-time monitoring of radiation doses, relevant to LDR brachytherapy. The minimally invasive design allows integration within existing brachytherapy equipment, ensuring biological safety and facilitating regulatory approval.
The research confirmed that the sensors maintain performance post-sterilisation and can accurately detect radioactive I-125 sources during intraoperative procedures. The final patient study highlighted the sensor's potential as a clinical tool for real-time dose monitoring, aiding in the identification of patients at risk of complications and improving implant quality through detailed dose information.
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University of Limerick
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Woulfe_2025_Optical.pdf
Adobe PDF, 4.96 MB