Latest developments in in-vivo imaging for proton therapy

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Particle Therapy

Background:

• Swift ion beams are increasingly used in radiation therapy due to their physical and biological properties, enabling highly selective cancer treatment.
• Over 90 ion therapy facilities are operational, with many more planned, primarily using proton beams.
• Advancements in accelerator technology and beam delivery have improved dose conformation to tumors, sparing healthy tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest developments in imaging technologies for ion beam radiation therapy.
• To address uncertainties in determining the precise beam range within patient anatomy during fractionated treatments.
• To explore methods for visualizing treatment delivery in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent technological advancements in imaging for ion therapy.
• Exploitation of irradiation-induced physical emissions for in vivo treatment visualization.
• Evaluation of imaging techniques from phantom studies to clinical testing.

Main Results:

• Development of pre-treatment imaging to match therapy beam quality.
• Emerging techniques for real-time in vivo monitoring of ion beam delivery.
• Studies range from proof-of-concept in phantoms to initial clinical evaluations.

Conclusions:

• Continued multidisciplinary research is crucial to overcome challenges in ion beam therapy, particularly regarding range uncertainties.
• Advanced imaging and in vivo monitoring hold significant promise for enhancing the clinical application and precision of ion beam radiation therapy.
• The reviewed developments aim to fully exploit the advantages of ion beams for improved cancer treatment outcomes.