3D printing from a biocompatible material for a new design of electron applicators of the intraoperative accelerator

Introduction A special type of radiotherapy is Intraoperative Electron Radiation Therapy (IOERT). The electron applicator is the element forming the final shape of the electron beam delivered to the postoperative bed. This work presents the new design of an electron applicator made from the biocompatible material MED610. The applicators will form an electron beam in the AQURE intraoperative accelerator. Material and methods The main problem to be solved during the construction work was to propose a design solution for the electron applicator that would be light, transparent, and made of a biocompatible material, and at the same time sufficiently shield the patient against radiation scattered outside its walls. Moreover, the applicator used in intraoperative therapy should have the thinnest possible walls. Results The calculations and design work performed allowed the lower part of the applicator to be made of a biocompatible, material. This element allows the beam to be formed in accordance with the normative recommendations, it is light and transparent. In this case, PolyJet 3D printing was selected as the most appropriate method. Conclusions Thanks to the use of a new solution for the shape of the walls, the applicator limits the leakage radiation by the standard, without the need for thicker outer walls. This material is light, thanks to which the doctor keeps this part of the applicator in the right position until it is fastened with the part on the head that does not require additional, dedicated fastening. The resin MED610 is suitable for 3D printing, it can be easily used to create any shape, and thus the possibilities of forming the lower part of the applicator are not limited. In the future, for individual purposes, the shape of the beam formed by the lower part of the applicator may be dedicated to special applications.