2F04-Linear Accelerator Technology as state-of-the-art platforms

for Advanced Image Guidance

Theodore Thorson, Ph.D.

Elekta Inc.

The modern linear accelerator has become the accepted standard treatment tool for Radiation Oncology.  Yet it is not the only technology that has been investigated and utilized.  Over a period of 50 years, a number of manufacturers have emerged to produce these devices, with significantly different technical approaches.  Each approach while providing similar functionality, is the result of various technical and engineering trade-offs which have clinical implications. 

Continuing evolution of the linac has resulted in remarkable improvements in precision and accuracy of delivery and made possible advanced modes of treatment such as conformal and intensity modulated therapy.  However, the lack of adequate positioning capability has limited the application of precision delivery technology, especially the ability to dose escalate.  Newly developed imaging technology, incorporated into the linear accelerator promises to achieve the ultimate goal of Radiation Oncology, namely, delivering dose only to the target volume and avoiding normal critical structures.

This presentation will briefly review the historical development of the linear accelerator, present various technical approaches their clinical impact and introduce new advanced image guidance technology.