Tubing decontamination during the leak test of iodine-125 seeds

Abstract

Leak tests were made to detect any leakage of radioactive material from inside the iodine-125 seeds applied in brachytherapy. These seeds are used in prostate cancer treatment. In the quality control routine, during seed production, leak tests are performed according to the International Standard Organization – radiation protection – sealed radioactive sources – ISO-9978 standard, and require liquid transfer between recipients. Any leakage causes contamination of the liquid and tubes. The aim of this study is the establishment of decontamination routines for tubes, allowing their repeated use, in the automated assay process.