Novel methods and instruments for accurate tracking of ionizing radiation delivery for medical physics applications

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The goal of this work is to create new instruments and methods for guaranteeing that complex radiation treatments can be delivered safely and accurately thus improving chances of success. Three specific aims are being pursued. (1) To develop a radiation dose detector capable of online measurement of radiation doses in three dimensions. This would be the first detector capable of measuring a complete radiation treatment in real-time with millimeter-size precision. Its use for radiotherapy quality control would be an improvement over the current approach of measuring the dose only in a limited number of planes, which leaves a large part of the dose distribution unverified. (2) To develop a miniature tissue-equivalent detector array for accurate in vivo measurement. This unobtrusive detector array will provide precise radiation dose measurements while patients are being treated. Furthermore, our novel approach for signal processing will allow checking the integrity of the detector response during measurements. Integrity checks are important for in vivo measurements because mechanical stress or other hazards could cause erroneous dose readings. (3) To automatically track anatomical changes happening during the course of radiation treatments. A software will be developed to analyze images acquired regularly during the course of radiation treatments to detect the amplitude and location of anatomical changes. We will then put these changes in relation with the planned dose distribution and the location of sensitive organs at risk to detect deviation from the intended plan and adapt it accordingly.