[Dose distribution in cobalt-60 irradiation of the axillary efferent lymphatic area in breast cancer].

A method of postoperative irradiation of breast cancer is reported using high dosage in the area of the axillary and subclavicular efferent lymphatic ducts. Within opposite fixed fields it was possible to modify the dose distribution by means of wedges, thus obtaining a maximum value of axillary and clavicular doses, together with a small radiation load on the lymphatic vessels which drain the region of the arm. The dose distributions in the depth of the shoulder are discussed on the basis of measurements at a phantom using different adjustments of the wedge filter. The most favorable dose distribution was noted with 17.5 degree lead wedges whereas, however, the angular aperture in the axillary and clavicular region was reduced to 2.5 degrees. This method is now being tested clinically.