The following report was made by e-mail:
In Radiation Oncology, a treatment was ordered for an HDR cylinder gynecological treatment of 2 fractions of 600 cGy to 5 mm past the surface of the cylinder. The treatment form was most likely filled out by a resident and was signed by both the resident and the attending radiation oncologist as stated by Environmental Health & Safety staff. When the radiation oncologist typed the official written directive into the IMPAC system, (Information for Management, Planning, Analysis and Coordination System), her intention was to treat 2 fractions of 600 cGy to the surface of the cylinder. The treatment was planned according to the written form to 5 mm past the surface of the cylinder. This plan was checked and signed off by the treating physician and was the treatment given to the patient. The radiation oncologist states that there should be no medical impact to the patient, as prescription to 5 mm past the surface of the cylinder is also an acceptable and standard treatment. The radiation oncologist has changed the prescription in IMPAC to reflect the dose that was given. The treating physician has notified both the referring physician and the patient.
A 'medical event' indicates potential problems in a medical facility's use of radioactive materials. It does not result in harm to the patient.