A new approach currently being investigated involves so-called “mixed beams,” which consist of two different ion species: Carbon nuclei destroy the tumor cells, while helium nuclei simultaneously help monitor the patient’s anatomy during irradiation. To make this possible, however, the precise ratio of carbon to helium in the beam must be known.
But how can an ion beam be measured while it is being used for treatment? TU Wien and MedAustron have now found a solution—an important step on the path toward cancer treatment using mixed ion beams. The paper is published in the journal Physical Review Accelerators and Beams.