Small field output factors evaluation with a microDiamond detector over 30 Italian centers

Purpose The aim of the study was a multicenter evaluation of MLC&jaws-defined small field output factors (OF) for different linear accelerator manufacturers and for different beam energies using the latest synthetic single crystal diamond detector commercially available. The feasibility of providing an experimental OF data set, useful for on-site measurements validation, was also evaluated. Methods This work was performed in the framework of the Italian Association of Medical Physics (AIFM) SBRT working group. The project was subdivided in two phases: in the first phase each center measured OFs using their own routine detector for nominal field sizes ranging from 10 × 10 cm2 to 0.6 × 0.6 cm2. In the second phase, the measurements were repeated in all centers using the PTW 60019 microDiamond detector. Results The project enrolled 30 Italian centers. Micro-ion chambers and silicon diodes were used for OF measurements in 24 and 6 centers respectively. Gafchromic films and TLDs were used for very small field OFs in 3 and 1 centers. Regarding the measurements performed with the user's detectors, OF standard deviations (SD) for field sizes down to 2 × 2 cm2 were in all cases <2.7%. In the second phase, a reduction of around 50% of the SD was obtained using the microDiamond detector. Conclusions The measured values presented in this multicenter study provide a consistent dataset for OFs that could be a useful tool for improving dosimetric procedures in centers. The microDiamond data present a small variation among the centers confirming that this detector can contribute to improve overall accuracy in radiotherapy. © 2016 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica