FLASH radiotherapy and the associated dosimetric challenges

Abstract

At Lund University and Skåne University Hospital in Lund, Sweden, we have, as the first clinic, modified a clinical Elekta Precise linear accelerator for convertible delivery of ultra-high dose rate (FLASH) irradiation. Whereas recently published reviews highlighted the need for standardised protocols for ultra-high dose rate beam dosimetry to be able to determine the true potential of FLASH irradiation, several dosimetry studies as well as in-vitro and in-vivo experiments have been carried out at our unit. Dosimetric procedures for verification of accurate dose delivery of FLASH irradiation to cell cultures, zebrafish embryos and small animals have been established using radiochromic films and thermo-luminescent dosimeters. Also, recently the first experience of electron FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH-RT) in canine patients in our clinical setting was published. Our research facilities also include a laboratory for 3D polymer gel manufacturing. Recently, we started investigating the feasibility of a NIPAM polymer gel dosimeter for ultra-high dose rate dosimetry. Furthermore, in the bunker of the modified Elekta linear accelerator, a Surface Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) system is accessible. The Catalyst™ system (C-Rad Positioning, Uppsala, Sweden) provides optical surface imaging for patient setup, real-time motion monitoring and breathing adapted treatment. Aiming at treating patients using ultra-high dose rates, a real-time validation of the alignment between the beam and the target is crucial as the dose is delivered in a fraction of a second. Our research group has during the last decade investigated and developed SGRT workflows which improved patient setup and breathing adapted treatment for several cancer patient groups. Recently, we also started investigating the feasibility of a real-time motion monitoring system for surface guided FLASH-RT. Both FLASH related studies; 3D polymer gel dosimetry and surface guided FLASH-RT are to our knowledge the first of their kind. Following an introduction to the field of FLASH and the associated dosimetric challenges, we here aim to present the two ongoing studies including some preliminary results.