Abstract: A method of calculating radiation dose includes dosimetric projection of a collimator geometry. The method includes defining a three-dimensional (3D) geometry of a collimating device which defines an aperture configured to allow a radiation beam passing through, projecting the collimating device along the radiation beam into a two-dimensional (2D) geometry in a plane, calculating dosimetric opacity values of the collimating device at locations adjacent to the aperture based on the 3D geometry of the collimating device, and calculating transport of the radiation beam through the collimating device based on the 2D geometry projected in the plane and using the dosimetric opacity values of the collimating device at the locations adjacent to the aperture.

Abstract: A method of calculating radiation dose includes dosimetric projection of a collimator geometry. The method includes defining a three-dimensional (3D) geometry of a collimating device which defines an aperture configured to allow a radiation beam passing through, projecting the collimating device along the radiation beam into a two-dimensional (2D) geometry in a plane, calculating dosimetric opacity values of the collimating device at locations adjacent to the aperture based on the 3D geometry of the collimating device, and calculating transport of the radiation beam through the collimating device based on the 2D geometry projected in the plane and using the dosimetric opacity values of the collimating device at the locations adjacent to the aperture.

Abstract: A heavy-particle treatment system exposes a patient's treatment volume, during the course of a single treatment session, to beams of heavy particles from a variety of different angles. The source of heavy particles may rotate about the patient to facilitate that variety of different angles. The foregoing can occur pursuant to a treatment plan that accounts for a penetration range as corresponds to the beams of heavy particles and for using at least one lateral beam controlling device to control at least one of the beams of heavy particles.

Abstract: To overcome the difficulties inherent in conventional proton therapy systems, new techniques are described herein for synchronizing the application of proton radiation with the periodic movement of a target area. In an embodiment, a method is provided that combines multiple rescans of a spot scanning proton beam while monitoring the periodic motion of the target area, and aligning the applications of the proton beam with parameters of the periodic motion. For example, the direction(s) and frequency of the periodic motion may be monitored, and the timing, dose rate, and/or scanning direction and spot sequence of the beam can be adjusted to align with phases in the periodic motion.

Abstract: A heavy-particle treatment system exposes a patient's treatment volume, during the course of a single treatment session, to beams of heavy particles from a variety of different angles. The source of heavy particles may rotate about the patient to facilitate that variety of different angles. The foregoing can occur pursuant to a treatment plan that accounts for a penetration range as corresponds to the beams of heavy particles and for using at least one lateral beam controlling device to control at least one of the beams of heavy particles.