(PAREL) Proton therapy used more effectively by optimally dealing with treatment uncertainties

Project summary

According to physics, irradiation with protons should be better than the current standard, photon irradiation. Prior to starting a series of proton therapy, the radiation oncologist designs a treatment strategy to optimize localization of the protons. However, the exact position of the patient can vary slightly between appointments, with the result that the radiation peak does not end up being where it was intended. This may mean that the tumour is under-radiated while surrounding tissues are over-radiated. By using a good calculation method, these “uncertainties” can be canceled out.

An improvement in proton therapy can lead to more effective tumour control with a reduction in side effects.