Physica medica : PM : an international journal devoted to the applications of physics to medicine and biology : official journal of the Italian Association of Biomedical Physics (AIFB)
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Comparative Study
A dosimetric analysis comparing electron beam with the MammoSite brachytherapy applicator for intact breast boost.
Electron beam radiation is the modality most often used to deliver an operative bed boost to breast cancer patients after completing whole breast radiation. However, electrons can potentially provide inadequate coverage. The MammoSite breast brachytherapy applicator may provide dosimetric advantages in the delivery of an operative bed boost and its role in this setting is not yet defined. ⋯ A tumor bed boost using the MammoSite breast brachytherapy applicator provides superior target coverage and delivers similar doses to the ipsilateral breast and lung compared to a boost delivered with electrons. More investigation into the role of balloon brachytherapy in the delivery of a breast boost is warranted.