Development of laser accelerated proton beams for radiation therapy

Recent advances in laser technology have made proton (ion) acceleration possible using laser induced plasmas. In this presentation we will review the theoretical and experimental results of laser-proton acceleration for radiotherapy applications. We will report on our work progress in the development of a laser-proton therapy system at Fox Chase Cancer Center. The new proton therapy system is designed as a compact and cost-effective alternative to conventional accelerator based proton systems capable of delivering intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT). The specific aims of our research are: (1) target design for laser-proton acceleration, (2) system design for particle/energy selection and beam collimation, and (3) dosimetric studies on the use of laser-accelerated protons for cancer therapy. We have established a 150 TW laser system for preliminary experimental studies. We also patented a compact particle selection and beam collimating system for IMPT beam delivery and a new gantry design to make the whole system compact and easy to operate with adequate shielding considerations. Our Monte Carlo results show that IMPT using laser protons provided superior target coverage and much reduced critical structure dose and integral dose. IMPT is more dosimetrically advantageous than photon IMRT or conventional proton beams.