Practice guideline for the performance of therapy with unsealed radiopharmaceutical sources

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with more than 8,500 members who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. As a leading organization in radiation oncology, biology, and physics, the Society is dedicated to the advancement of the practice of radiation oncology by promoting excellence in patient care, providing opportunities for educational and professional development, promoting research and disseminating research results, and representing radiation oncology in a rapidly evolving socioeconomic healthcare environment. ASTRO will periodically define new practice guidelines and technical standards for the practice of radiation oncology to help advance the science and to improve the quality of service to patients throughout the United States. Existing practice guidelines and technical standards will be reviewed for revision or renewal, as appropriate. This practice guideline has undergone a thorough consensus process in which it has been subjected to extensive review by the relevant Committees within ASTRO. Final approval was granted by the ASTRO Board of Directors. Practice guidelines recognize that the safe and effective use of therapeutic radiation requires specific training, skills, and techniques, as described in this document. Reproduction or modification of the published practice guideline by those entities not providing these services is not authorized.This report has also been published in the American College of Radiology, Practice Guideline for the Performance of Therapy with Unsealed Sources, ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards, pp. 637-649, 2005.Reprint requests to: Department of Research, American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO), 12500 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 375, Fairfax, Virginia 22030. Tel: (703) 502-1550