Description:
Radiotherapy has been one of the principal modalities
for the treatment of malignant disease for more than 50
years. From the outset, its advancement has depended on
the work of physicists and engineers, in particular for
the development of high-energy accelerators for X-ray
and electron beams, and in the production of radioactive
sources. In addition, the clinical application of
ionizing radiations for therapy is based on the
foundation of dosimetric concepts and instrumentation.
Medical physics plays a pivotal role in many areas,
including treatment equipment, dosimetry, treatment
planning, and radiation protection.
Radiotherapy physics, second edition is a comprehensive,
practical introduction to radiotherapy physics. It
provides detailed descriptions of current techniques,
written by experienced practitioners who review current
methods and give specific guidance in their own areas of
expertise. This new edition reflects the significant
changes that have occurred in radiotherapy equipment and
techniques - the routine use of MLCs, the delivery of
IMRT, advances in imaging technology for planning (eg
MRI, CT-simulator) and for treatment verification
(EPIDs). There have also been significant changes in
dosimetry, which have resulted in new dosimetry
protocols. Trainee and qualified medical physicists,
radiographers, radiation oncologists, and other
personnel involved in radiotherapy will find this book
to be an excellent guide to this important specialty. |