Fluka simulation studies of dose distributions in linear medical accelerators

Nowadays, many advanced devices based on radiation are used, especially for the detection and treatment of cancer cells. While computed tomography (CT), Positron Emission Tomography (PET) devices are used for imaging, Medical Linear Accelerators (LINAC) and Co-60 sources are widely used in the treatment. The general working principle of LINAC is based on accelerating and directing electrons in certain energies. The daily use of these devices should be adjusted according to patient dose planning. Furthermore, depending on the duration of use of the device, it is necessary to measure and calibrate the dose profiles at various intervals using various phantoms. These tests are usually performed every 3 months by comparing the dose profiles with previous measurements using water phantom and solid phantom. Various simulation programs are used in radiotherapy for different purposes. FLUKA is a Monte Carlo code that is used for dose profiles and treatment planning. In this study, first of all, the linear accelerator and water phantom used in Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital was used for control purposes. As a result of these measurements, dose profiles were obtained for 6 MV and 15 MV energized photons. Simulation of these periodically tests was carried out using the FLUKA simulation program. At the same energies, the dose profiles for the photons were calculated by describing the LINAC chamber in FLUKA. In two studies, the dose profiles were compared in three different regions. As a result of this comparison, it was observed that the experiment and simulation were compatible.