Optically Stimulated Luminescence Radiation Dosimetry Method to Determine Dose Rates During Radiotherapy Procedures

Abstract

There is provided a system and method for estimating radiation exposure in real time or in near-real time while a dosimeter is being irradiated. In the preferred arrangement, OSL will be used to calculate estimates of the radiation dose rate, preferably by using comparisons between illumination values measured during and after lighting the dosimeter with a laser light of a predetermined frequency. A first preferred embodiment utilizes quasi-equilibrium OSL intensity with periodic stimulation during continuous irradiation. Another preferred embodiment utilizes the amplitude of the transient OSL signal during periodic stimulation. Another preferred embodiment utilizes the difference between the OSL intensity at the end of one stimulation period and the beginning of the next. Finally, another preferred monitors the time constant for the return of the transient OSL signal to equilibrium, following either a change in dose rate or during a periodic optical stimulation.