Protoacoustic Imaging For 3D Mapping

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, and proton therapy offers enhanced precision for treating deep-seated tumors due to the Bragg Peak phenomenon, which allows for concentrated dose delivery while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This study seeks to build upon this advantage by incorporating real-time, in vivo verification of proton dose deposition. The study hypothesizes that integrating RAI with ultrasound (US) will enable real-time dose verification and motion tracking, thereby improving the accuracy, adaptability, and overall effectiveness of proton therapy for moving targets such as the liver and prostate.

Participants enrolled in the study will first undergo standard X-ray alignment as part of their routine treatment workflow. Following alignment, a robotic arm will position an ultrasound matrix array over the lower anterior abdominal region. A conformal, water-mediated interface in combination with ultrasound gel will be used to ensure optimal acoustic coupling between the transducer and the patient's skin, allowing for passive detection of acoustic signals generated during proton beam delivery. These signals will be used to reconstruct and monitor dose deposition in real time throughout treatment.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients at least >18years old
• Patients referred to OUHSC SCC for SOC PT
• Patients receiving treatment for indications where RAI data collection is feasible (e.g., liver and prostate)
• Willingness and ability to provide a documented informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with contraindications for ultrasound coupling (e.g., extensive open wounds or skin conditions at transducer placement sites).
• Patients whose treatment plan or setup prevents the practical application of the RAI system without interfering with standard clinical care
• Patients with implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers) in the treatment region if there is any concern of device interference, even though the RAI system is passive.