title: The physics of proton therapy.
abstract: The physics of proton therapy has advanced considerably since it was proposed in 1946. Today analytical equations and numerical simulation methods are available to predict and characterize many aspects of proton therapy. This article reviews the basic aspects of the physics of proton therapy, including proton interaction mechanisms, proton transport calculations, the determination of dose from therapeutic and stray radiations, and shielding design. The article discusses underlying processes as well as selected practical experimental and theoretical methods. We conclude by briefly speculating on possible future areas of research of relevance to the physics of proton therapy.
authors: Medical Physics Program, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University, 202 Nicholson Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, 4950 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, USA.
authors: Wayne D
authors: WD
authors: Newhauser
authors: Rui
authors: R
authors: Zhang
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D061766:Proton Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011522:Protons; D011829:Radiation Dosage
chemical_list: D011522:Protons