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Installing a Proton Therapy Machine Like a LINAC

B Winey*, G Sharp , B Clasie , Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA

Presentations

(Sunday, 7/29/2018) 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Room: Exhibit Hall

Purpose: To reduce cost and increase clinical efficiency, a novel compact synchrotron based proton therapy machine has been installed in a hospital setting into the space of two linac vaults. The new treatment room is alongside the current photon linac vaults in an optimal location for the clinical staff, but it also presents a challenge in installing a comprehensive proton equipment suite in an existing, treating and conventional radiotherapy clinic. The location is three floors underground, located below emergency and operating rooms in an active radiotherapy clinic.

Methods: The proton therapy unit includes a 330 MeV synchrotron accelerator, robotic patient positioner, half gantry, scanning nozzle, 2D and CBCT 3D volumetric imaging, associated power supplies, and translation slide. The proton equipment, 3rd party supplier coordination, scheduling, installation and equipment commissioning is provided by U.S.-based, ProTom International.

Results: The proton therapy unit, including the accelerator, gantry, treatment area, shielding, magnet power supplies, and equipment control racks, has the footprint of two conventional linac vaults with a recess dug for the gantry. Preinstallation construction, delivery of all components, via an elevator shaft, construction, and installation is complete. Technical commissioning is underway

Conclusion: The status quo in proton therapy is to install large pieces of equipment followed by completing the exterior walls and/or roof. Linacs, on the other hand, can be delivered via elevators and be located in a building rather than being the purpose of the building. This work describes the unique challenges and opportunities of installing a synchrotron based proton therapy system and demonstrates how proton therapy can be implemented in locations alongside standard, existing radiotherapy centers.

Keywords

Protons

Taxonomy

Not Applicable / None Entered.

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