A Monte Carlo Approach to Imaging and Dose Simulations in Realistic Phantoms Using Compact X-Ray Source

X-ray emitters are amongst the most widely used tools in medicine. Based on compact electron beams, they are utilised for a range of applications, including medical imaging and cancer treatment. The optimisation of a specific X-ray source relies on detailed simulation studies into the achievable resolution and intensity distribution. Monte Carlo (MC) codes are widely used in the medical community for dose estimation to patients and the environment. They are also ideally suited for simulating 3D intensity distributions in realistic environments. This demands accurate and reliable physical models capable of handling all components of the expected radiation field. In this paper the capabilities of the FLUKA MC code to simulate complex X-ray sources are presented. Advanced phantoms, based on imported DICOM format, are used to evaluate the dose to relevant areas, including the patient, individual organs and the treatment room. It is also shown how they can provide a good basis to reproduce radiography images by scoring photon fluencies.