Prog Med Phys.  2017 Jun;28(2):67-75. 10.14316/pmp.2017.28.2.67.

Proposal for Comprehensive Quality Control of Heavy-Ion Medical Accelerator

• Kim DW
• Shin DO
• Shin YH
• Heo HD

• KMID: 2388211
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14316/pmp.2017.28.2.67

Abstract

Prior to the introduction of a medical apparatus based on heavy-ion medical accelerator in Korea, a study is needed on quality control in clinical operation for the safe and appropriate usage of the instrument. Data relevant for the study were obtained via information sharing sessions and visits by the Particle Therapy Co-Operative Group (PTCOG) and other related academic associations. Furthermore, investigative analysis of the European and Japanese performance evaluation guidelines for heavy ion, as well as research on relevant literature, were conducted. In addition, instrumental standards were analyzed through an investigation of the current usage status of the heavy-ion medical accelerator, and further analysis was conducted on the evaluation methods for the performance, safety, and significance of the instrument. Based on these analyses, regular quality control procedures for heavy-ion medical accelerators in hospitals and other institutes were extrapolated. It is hoped that the results of this study will facilitate hospitals that have introduced heavy-ion medical accelerators, or are considering the implementation of the instrument, in their understanding of the fundamental standards and capabilities of the treatment system, as well as in establishing and carrying out quality control procedures for clinical operations such that it will contribute to the safety of patients and the efficiency of medical practitioners.

Keyword

Heavy ion; Medical instrument; Quality control; Dose distribution; Dose limit

MeSH Terms

Academies and Institutes
Asian Continental Ancestry Group
Heavy Ions
Hope
Humans
Information Dissemination
Korea
Quality Control*

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1. Organizational chart for safe operation of radiation therapy system. Top-most box: Chief of heavy-ion medical treatment center, Second row – left: radiation oncology specialist, Second row – right: Medical practitioner (quality control personnel), Third row – left: Nurse, Third row – center: radiologic technician, Third row – right: Technician team (Engineers).

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