Charged-particle radiosurgery of the brain

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Neuroscience Research
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Charged-particle beams possess unique physical properties beneficial for neurosurgery and neuroscience.
• These beams feature Bragg ionization peaks, finite range, and collimation capabilities for precise tissue targeting.
• Over 6000 neurosurgical patients have been treated with stereotactic charged-particle radiosurgery since 1954.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of charged-particle beams in neurosurgery and neuroscience research.
• To highlight the therapeutic efficacy and radiobiologic advantages of charged particles, especially heavier ions.
• To emphasize the growing international importance and development of biomedical accelerator facilities for intracranial disorder treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical patient data and experimental studies using charged-particle beams.
• Analysis of physical properties (Bragg peaks, finite range, collimation) of charged-particle beams.
• Examination of radiobiologic properties of heavier charged particles (carbon and neon ions).

Main Results:

• Charged-particle beams have been successfully used to create precise lesions for studying brain functional anatomy.
• Therapeutic efficacy is demonstrated for pituitary adenomas and arteriovenous malformations.
• Heavier charged particles show potential for radioresistant brain tumors due to favorable radiobiologic properties.

Conclusions:

• Charged-particle beam irradiation is increasingly important for stereotactic radiosurgery and radiation oncology of intracranial disorders.
• Optimal dose and particle selection are crucial for improving cure rates and minimizing radiation injury.
• Continued development of biomedical accelerator facilities worldwide supports advanced applications in neurosurgery and neuroscience.