In this paper, we describe a quantitative evaluation of the dosimetry effect of lack of side-scatter volume (LSSV). MapCheck, an integration diode array, was used to measure dose maps for three large non-IMRT fields (30cm ×30 cm and 40 cm×40 cm open fields, and 30 cm×30 cm wedge field with wedge angle of 60°) and 19 large IMRT fields. For each field, measurement was performed twice, under the conditions of (1) full scatter volume and (2) LSSV. Condition 1 was satisfied by adding PMMA slabs against the side of the MapCheck, and Condition 2, without PMMA slabs. The measured dose maps were compared with pass rate and their difference was scored when the acceptance criterion was set to 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, etc. For very large open fields, the effect of LSSV may be clinically significant, while for large wedge fields and IMRT fields, the effect is negligible.