ORIGIN, an EU project targeting real-time 3D dose imaging and source localization in brachytherapy: Commissioning and first results of a 16-sensor prototype

The ORIGIN project targets the production and qualification of a real-time radiation dose imaging and source localization system for both Low Dose Rate (LDR) and High Dose Rate (HDR) brachytherapy treatments, namely radiotherapy based on the use of radioactive sources implanted in the patient’s body. This goal will be achieved through a 16-fiber sensor system, engineered to house in a clear-fiber tip a small volume of the scintillator to allow point-like measurements of the delivered dose. Each fiber is optically coupled to a sensor with single photon sensitivity (Silicon Photomultipliers — SiPMs) operating in counting mode. The readout is based on the CITIROC1A ASIC by WEEROC, embedded in the FERS-DT5202 scalable platform designed by CAEN S.p.A. Linearity and sensitivity together with the fiber response uniformity, system stability, and measurement reproducibility are key features for a instrument aiming to perform dose measurements. Characterization was carried out in the laboratory, using an X-ray cabinet; preliminary dose rate measurements were performed in clinical conditions.