Effects of TiLOOP Bra Mesh on Radiotherapy Dose Distribution

Abstract

OBJECTIVEThe TiLOOP Bra mesh is a breast-implant-surrounding material that supports the pectoralis muscle andkeeps the implant stable in the subpectoral area during breast reconstruction surgery. This study aimedto investigate the dosimetric effect of TiLOOP Bra mesh on dose distribution of radiotherapy in patientsrequiring postoperative treatment.METHODSThe metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) and nanoDot optically stimulated luminescence dosimeter (OSLD) were used for dose measurements at different depths in solid phantoms.The measurements were performed above and below the mesh, and at 1 cm deep to the mesh for 6 MVphoton energy. The relative dose differences were obtained by measuring doses using the dosimeters andcomparing the results with calculated values in Eclipse TPS (Treatment Planning System). The relativedose differences between the cases where the mesh had been present and where the mesh had beenremoved were evaluated.RESULTSThe results were found less than 1%. The findings showed that the TiLOOP Bra mesh used in breastsurgery did not affect the dose calculations for radiotherapy. In addition, there were no metallic artifactson computed tomography image.CONCLUSIONTherefore, the quality of the computed tomography image was not affected by the TiLOOP Bra mesh,and it was not necessary to correct the artifact and change the HU (Hounsfield Unit) value in TPS.