Proton imaging system incorporating positron emission tomography (PET) modules for optimization of proton therapy
US11717237B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 21, 2021 |
| Grant date | Aug 8, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 25, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06T2211/424
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A novel proton imaging system incorporates positron emission detections to enhance proton therapy treatment preparation and procedural efficiencies while reducing operational costs associated with proton therapy. In one case, the novel proton imaging system incorporating a positron emission tomography (PET) module enables rapid on-the-fly in vivo range verification for proton therapy using position information from short-lived positron emitters produced during treatment. This unique in vivo range verification method produces more streamlined, accurate, and cost-effective results relative to conventional proton imaging systems. In another case, the novel proton imaging system incorporating the PET module provides a unique combinatory PET/pCT (proton computer tomography) scanning that creates more accurate maps for proton therapy planning for metabolically-active tumors. This proton imaging system also utilizes a novel concept of “virtual protons” originating from in vivo range verification measurements that mimic proton particle's characteristics for more accurate proton computer tomography (pCT) or computer tomography (CT).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.