What is the exposure rate constant of 137Cs in brachytherapy?

The exposure rate constant of 137Cs (Cobalt-137) in brachytherapy is a specific value used to quantify how much exposure to radiation is produced per unit activity. For 137Cs, the exposure rate constant is approximately 3.26 R cm²/mCi-h, which is often rounded to about 3 for practical calculations in treatment planning and dosimetry.

In brachytherapy, knowing the exposure rate constant is vital for calculating the dose delivered to tissues from the radioactive source. This information helps medical professionals ensure that patients receive the correct therapeutic dose while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

This specific value reflects fundamental aspects of radiation physics and utilizes established measurements for radiological safety, clinical dosimetry, and reliable treatment outcomes. Understanding the exposure rate constant is crucial for anyone involved in the planning and implementation of brachytherapy procedures.