Volumetric mapping of radiation dose deposition deep into patient pancreas during radiation therapy

Capable of deep tissue dose mapping, ionizing radiation acoustic imaging (iRAI) has the potential to address challenges in pancreatic cancer radiotherapy, where tumors are located deep within the body, subject to organ motion, and near critical organs. Here, we describe a clinical pilot study using iRAI to map dose depositions of static beams and volume-modulated arc therapy in patients receiving radiotherapy to the pancreas. The doses mapped by iRAI were compared to treatment plans using clinical standard evaluation methods. The high consistency observed demonstrates the potential of iRAI for monitoring dose deposition in the pancreas during radiotherapy, potentially leading to improved efficacy and safety.