A new verification film system for routine quality control of radiation fields: Kodak EC-L

Background: The use of modern irradiation techniques requires better verifi cation films for determining set-up deviations and patient movements during the course of radiation treatment. This is an investigation of the image q uality and time requirement of a new verification film system compared to a conventional portal film system. Material and Methods: For conventional verifications we used Agfa Curix HT 1000 films which were compared to the new Kodak EC-L film system. 344 Agfa Curix HT 1000 and 381 Kodak EC-L portal films of different tumor sites (pro state, rectum, head and neck) were visually judged on a light box by 2 expe rienced physicians. Subjective judgement of image quality, masking of films and time requirement were checked. Results In this investigation 65% of 175 Kodak EC-L ap/pa-films were judged "good", only 18% were classified "moderate" or "poor" 14%, but only 22% of 173 conventional ap/pa verification films (Agfa Curirx HT 1000) were judge d to be ''good". Conclusions: The image quality, detail perception and time required for fil m inspection of the new Kodak EC-L film system was significantly improved w hen compared with standard portal films. They could be read more accurately and the detection of set-up deviation was facilitated.