A GATE Monte Carlo framework for dosimetric evaluation in mammography in an Algerian hospital

A framework has been developed for dosimetric evaluation in mammography, using the GATE Monte Carlo (MC) platform, to simulate a MAMMOMAT 3000 Nova mammograph (Siemens) available at the University Hospital Center "1st November 1954" of Oran (EHU Oran 1er Novembre, 1954), Algeria. Calculated quantities such half-value layer (HVL), Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) and Mean Glandular Dose (MGD) have been compared to experimental data in order to validate the modeling of mammography examinations. Results are consistent with previous studies and show a good agreement between measurements and Monte Carlo calculations. By varying the tube voltage from 25 to 35 kV, we have estimated an increasing of a factor of 2.4 in ESD, and a factor of 2.75 for the MGD in a breast phantom. Furthermore, the current intensity of 100 mAs used for a beam quality combination (Mo/Mo) Anode/filter was found suitable for the tube voltages of 25–29 keV since the MGD does not exceed the limits set by the different quality insurance protocols. This GATE dose calculation framework thus provides a very useful tool for the optimization of mammography examinations at Oran hospital by allowing a better estimation of the dose delivered to patients according to the parameters of the examination. •A mammography dose calculation software has been developed for the 1st of November university hospital (EHU, Oran, Algeria).•This tool is based on a GATE/GEANT4 Monte Carlo platform, validated with a series of experimental measurements (HVL, doses).•Technical parameters of the MAMMOMAT-3000 device were considered in the calculations, as well as clinical protocol.•Main results on HVL (Half Value Layer), and ESD (Entrance Surface Dose)/MGD (Mean Glandular Dose) are presented.