Python-based tool estimates secondary neutron dose in proton therapy treatment rooms

Summary

A research team has developed a Python-based calculation tool that estimates out-of-field neutron dose during pencil-beam scanning proton therapy. The tool uses treatment plan information to calculate neutron dose anywhere in a proton therapy treatment room, addressing the issue of secondary neutrons produced by nuclear interactions of the therapeutic beam. This helps clinicians better understand and manage secondary radiation exposure to patients during proton therapy treatments.