Physics in Radiation Oncology Self-Assessment Guide

Book excerpt: This guide & companion to the Radiation Oncology Self-Assessment Guide is a comprehensive physics review for anyone in the field of radiation oncology looking to enhance their knowledge of medical physics. It covers in depth the principles of radiation physics as applied to radiation therapy along with their technical and clinical applications. To foster retention of key concepts and data, the resource utilizes a user-friendly ìflash cardî question and answer format with over 800 questions. The questions are supported by detailed answers and rationales along with reference citations for source information. The Guide is comprised of 14 chapters that lead the reader through the radiation oncology physics field, from basic physics to current practice and latest innovations. Aspects of basic physics covered include fundamentals, photon and particle interactions, and dose measurement. A section on current practice covers treatment planning, safety, regulations, quality assurance, and SBRT, SRS, TBI, IMRT, and IGRT techniques. A chapter unique to this volume is dedicated to those topics in diagnostic imaging most relevant to radiology, including MRI, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, mammography, PET, SPECT, and CT. New technologies such as VMAT, novel IGRT devices, proton therapy, and MRI-guided therapy are also incorporated. Focused and authoritative, this must-have review combines the expertise of clinical radiation oncology and radiation physics faculty from the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute. Key Features: Includes more than 800 questions with detailed answers and rationales A one-stop guide for those studying the physics of radiation oncology including those wishing to reinforce their current knowledge of medical physics Delivered in a ìflash cardî format to facilitate recall of key concepts and data Presents a unique chapter on diagnostic imaging topics most relevant to radiation oncology Content provided by a vast array of contributors, including physicists, radiation oncology residents, dosimetrists, and physicians About the Editors: Andrew Godley, PhD, is Staff Physicist, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland OH Ping Xia, PhD, is Head of Medical Physics and Professor of Molecular Medicine, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.