Proton beam radiosurgery and radiotherapy

In contrast to photon irradiation, where energy deposition is distributed over a relatively large area, the physical properties of proton irradiation are such that energy deposition occurs within a small target volume. As such, proton beams represent a new platform on which specific delivery of high-dose radiation can be achieved with minimal disruption of normal tissues. Since our understanding of the radiobiology of proton radiation remains incomplete, proton beam treatment planning is based on empirical estimates of tissue effects. Despite such limitations, notable successes have been achieved in the treatment of uveal melanomas, chondrosarcomas, meningiomas, acoustic neuromas, arteriovenous malformations, malignant gliomas, and medulloblastomas.