An Approach for Optimizing Prompt Gamma Photon-Based Range Estimation in Proton Therapy Using Cramér-Rao Theory

Various methods for in vivo range estimation during proton therapy based on the measurement of prompt gamma (PG) photons have been proposed. However, optimizing the method of detection by trial-and-error is a tedious endeavor. Here, we investigate the feasibility of using the Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB) to more quickly arrive at an optimum...

First in situ TOF-PET study using digital photon counters for proton range verification

Positron emission tomography (PET) is the imaging modality most extensively tested for treatment monitoring in particle therapy. Optimal use of PET in proton therapy requires in situ acquisition of the relatively strong ¹⁵O signal due to its relatively short half-life (∼2 min) and high oxygen content in biological tissues, enabling...

Time-resolved imaging of prompt-gamma rays for proton range verification using a knife-edge slit camera based on digital photon counters

Proton range monitoring may facilitate online adaptive proton therapy and improve treatment outcomes. Imaging of proton-induced prompt gamma (PG) rays using a knife-edge slit collimator is currently under investigation as a potential tool for real-time proton range monitoring. A major challenge in collimated PG imaging is the suppression of...