New-generation Indian Linear Accelerator: Validation of Specifications and Comparative Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Radiotherapy (RT) is essential for cancer treatment, with India facing a significant shortage of RT machines.
• The "Make in India" initiative aims to develop indigenous linear accelerators to address this gap.
• A new low-energy (6 MV) linear accelerator has been developed and installed in Indian oncology centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance and efficacy of the indigenous Siddharth II© linear accelerator.
• To compare its radiation delivery parameters with a well-established imported model (Varian TrueBeam©).
• To assess its suitability for clinical use in India.

Main Methods:

• Performance specifications and beam characteristics of five Siddharth II© linacs were measured during commissioning and type approval.
• Radiation safety parameters were assessed.
• Data was compared with measured 6 MV photon values from an imported Varian TrueBeam© model.

Main Results:

• The indigenous 6 MV linear accelerator (Siddharth II©) demonstrated adequate design and comparable radiation beam delivery to imported models.
• All radiation safety parameters met international standards and were on par with imported machines.
• Five linacs were installed and evaluated over a 2-year period.

Conclusions:

• The Siddharth II© linac meets clinical requirements and performs comparably to imported linear accelerators.
• This indigenous technology represents a significant step towards self-reliance in cancer treatment infrastructure.
• It promises wider accessibility and affordability of radiotherapy for Indian patients.