Patent ID: 7789561
Filing Date: 2010-09-07
Classification: A61B,A61N

Abstract:
1. A method for verifying radiation beam alignment, comprising: providing a LINAC having a radiographic image guidance system and having a laser light beam that corresponds to the central axis of the LINAC; providing a beam detection apparatus which is mounted on a gimbal assembly; providing a beam detection apparatus having: using the LINAC's image guidance system, the alignment fixture is positioned at an alignment center or isocenter of the LINAC; and selecting a node and positioning the LINAC at that node; and activating the laser light beam; adjusting the beam detection apparatus which is mounted on the gimbal assembly such that the alignment mirror is perpendicular to the laser light beam by locating the reflection of the laser light beam along the axis of the inbound laser light beam; delivering an amount of radiation from the LINAC to the alignment fixture with a collimator affixed on the LINAC; detecting or capturing a radiographic image of the alignment fixture on the radiation detector of the beam detection apparatus; analyzing the resulting image of the alignment fixture for eccentricity; and adjusting the node position to eliminate eccentricity.