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[Charged Particle Therapy Technologies Originated in Japan]
1Department of Accelerator and Medical Physics, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology.
Summary
Charged particle therapy, including proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy, has advanced significantly in Japan since the 1980s. Japan has pioneered key technologies like respiratory-gated irradiation and spot scanning for advanced cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Charged particle therapy, including proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy, has a history dating back to Robert R. Wilson's proposal in 1946.
- Clinical studies initially focused in the United States and Europe, with Japan initiating proton radiotherapy in the 1980s and carbon-ion radiotherapy in 1994.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and current status of charged particle therapy in Japan.
- To highlight Japanese contributions to charged particle therapy technologies and discuss future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of charged particle therapy development in Japan.
- Identification and discussion of key Japanese-developed technologies in proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy.
Main Results:
- Japan has established numerous proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy facilities.
- Significant technological advancements originating in Japan include respiratory-gated irradiation, spot scanning irradiation, and clinical dose design for ion radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Japan has become a major player in charged particle therapy, with operational facilities and equipment vendors.
- Continued research and development in Japan are crucial for advancing charged particle therapy technologies and their clinical applications.