History of proton radiotherapy and overview -- Discovery of proton and its intrinsic powers -- Initial application of proton beams to biological system and humans -- The current status of proton beam therapy -- Physical characteristics of proton radiotherapy -- Physical characteristics of proton beams -- Dosimetry of proton beams -- Trackstructure and microdosimetry of proton beams -- Qualitative comparison of proton beams with various radiotherapy beams -- Equipments and QA of proton radiotherapy -- Accelerator Systems for proton radiotherapy -- Beam delivery systems for proton radiotherapy -- Treatment planning system for proton radiotherapy -- Motion management -- Quality assurance of proton radiotherapy -- Radiobiology for proton radiotherapy -- Overview on current topics of proton radiobiology -- Energy deposition of proton beams in cells -- DNA damages, repair mechanisms and chromosome aberrations -- RBE and fractionation -- Challenge and future of proton radiotherapy -- Technological developnig issues and the future of proton radiotherapy.

This book offers a comprehensive, practical guide to understanding the physical and biological characteristics of proton beam radiotherapy. The application of proton beams to the treatment of solid cancers has expanded exponentially over the last decade due to their physical properties, which make it possible to administer higher doses of radiation to lesions with only a minimum dose to the surrounding healthy tissues. Accordingly, understanding the basic aspects of proton beam radiotherapy is a primary concern not only for medical physicists and radiation biologists, but also for all physicians involved in cancer treatment using proton beams. The major aspects discussed include the techniques development background, the generation and delivery system for proton beams, physical characteristics, biological consequences, dosimetry, and future prospects in both medical physics and radiation biology in terms of effective cancer treatment. Gathering contributions from experts who provide clear and detailed information on the basics of proton beams, the book will greatly benefit not only radiological technicians, medical physicists, and physicians, but also scientists in cancer radiotherapy.

Print version record.

Master record variable field(s) change: 072