Modified irradiation technique for transfusable blood using a clinical linear accelerator

Whole blood irradiation prior to blood transfusion mitigates the risk of Transfusion Associated Graft versus Host Disease (TA-GvHD) to the receiver. This study aimed to improve dose homogeneity, also to benefit from a faster technique and a simplified blood irradiation workflow. An acrylic box accommodating eight units of blood has been fabricated, build-up material being used to ensure dose homogeneity. A linear accelerator dose distribution treatment plan for blood bag irradiations has been evaluated, measurement of dose using nanoDot optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLD) allowing comparison with calculated dose. By using build-up material, dose distribution was within 95%–107% of the prescribed dose. With all eight units of blood accommodated in the box, an irradiation time of 20 min per box has been needed. Compared to a previously adopted procedure, use of the acrylic box and build-up material maintains dose homogeneity, also simplifying the workflow, the technique also being easy to undertake by the operators.