Local dose coefficients for radionuclide contamination in wounds

Abstract

The objective of this research is to create local dose coefficients for radionuclide contaminated wounds to accompany dose coefficients obtained by Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education looking at whole body effects of radionuclide intake from wounds. These dose coefficients can be used to calculate activity limits at the wound site that could lead to a clinically significant dose. This is useful for emergency response to assist in decisions on decorportaion therapy. Wound models were created for injections, lacerations, abrasions, and burns and MCNP was used to simulate the dose received by 38 radionuclides. Mathematical models accounted for biological removal of the radionuclides from the wound site. It was found that radionuclides that are not retained well at the wound site are likely of little concern locally, but for highly retained radionuclides local doses may be concerning.