Thesis title: Development of a VHEE accelerator in Sapienza for the treatment of deep seated tumors: planning and radioprotection challenges of a FLASH compact machine.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, making the quest for more effective treatments a critical priority. While traditional methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, and conventional radiotherapy have achieved considerable success, they often come with significant limitations and side effects. Consequently, there is an ongoing need for innovative techniques that can offer higher precision, fewer side effects, and improved patient outcomes. One promising advancement in the field of radiotherapy is the use of Very High Energy Electrons (VHEE). VHEE therapy has shown potential for treating deep-seated tumors with efficacy comparable to that of conventional photon or proton therapy. However, its widespread adoption has been hindered by several technological challenges, primarily the integration of VHEE accelerators into hospital settings. Historically, the size and complexity of these accelerators have rendered them impractical for clinical use. Recent breakthroughs in accelerator technology, particularly in C-band and X- band frequencies, along with the discovery of the FLASH effect, have brought VHEE therapy closer to clinical feasibility. The FLASH effect, characterized by the delivery of ultra-high dose rates of radiation in a fraction of a second, has demonstrated potential in reducing damage to healthy tissues while maintaining effective tumor control. These advancements have facilitated the development of compact VHEE machines suitable for hospital environments. This thesis presents the SAFEST project, an initiative aimed at designing and constructing a VHEE linear accelerator (LINAC) at Sapienza University for research purposes. A detailed description of the facility will be provided, highlighting the infrastructure and safety measures implemented: my contribution to this project has primarily focused on the radioprotection studies necessary to ensure the safety of the experimental facility. Additionally, the developed of a Treatment Planning System (TPS) to assess the feasibility of VHEE treatments is crucial. This involved studying various types of cancer across different anatomical regions to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of VHEE therapy. The findings will underscore the advancements in VHEE technology, the feasibility of its clinical application, and the radioprotection strategies necessary to ensure safe operation.