Design, Implementation, and in Vivo Validation of a Novel Proton FLASH Radiation Therapy System

PurposeRecent studies suggest that ultrahigh-dose-rate, “FLASH,” electron radiation therapy (RT) decreases normal tissue damage while maintaining tumor response compared with conventional dose rate RT. Here, we describe a novel RT apparatus that delivers FLASH proton RT (PRT) using double scattered protons with computed tomography guidance and provide the first report of proton FLASH RT-mediated normal tissue radioprotection.Methods and MaterialsAbsolute dose was measured at multiple depths in solid water and validated against an absolute integral charge measurement using a Faraday cup. Real-time dose rate was obtained using a NaI detector to measure prompt gamma rays. The effect of FLASH versus standard dose…

• UD
  U.S. Department of Defense
• NC
  National Center for Research Resources