Review of Technologies for Ion Therapy Accelerators

TL;DR

This paper reviews the evolution and future prospects of ion therapy accelerators, focusing on technological advancements needed for more compact, efficient, and flexible cancer treatment facilities using proton and heavy ion beams.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the technological developments and emerging trends in ion therapy accelerators, including novel treatment methods like FLASH.

Findings

Machine parameters have evolved to meet clinical needs.

Emerging trends include development of FLASH therapy.

Future prospects aim for more compact and efficient accelerators.

Abstract

Cancer therapy using protons and heavier ions such as carbon has demonstrated advantages over other radiotherapy treatments. To bring about the next generation of clinical facilities, the requirements are likely to reduce the footprint, obtain beam intensities above 1E10 particles per spill, and achieve faster extraction for more rapid, flexible treatment. This review follows the technical development of ion therapy, discussing how machine parameters have evolved, as well as trends emerging in technologies for novel treatments such as FLASH. To conclude, the future prospects of ion therapy accelerators are evaluated.