Self-Shielding for the ZAP-X: Revised Characterization and Evaluation

Abstract

The ZAP-X® is a newly designed, self-contained, and first-of-its-kind self-shielded therapeutic radiationtherapy device dedicated to brain and head and neck stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). By using an S-bandlinear accelerator (linac) and employing integrated minimal but sufficient shielding, the ZAP-X does nottypically require a radiation bunker. At the same time, the self-shielded features of the ZAP-X are designedfor more consistency of radiation protection, reducing the risk to radiation workers and others potentiallyexposed from a poorly designed or constructed radiotherapy vault

This study postulates that a radiosurgical system can be self-shielded, such that it produces radiationexposure levels deemed safe to the public while operating under a full clinical workload. The goal of self-shielding is achieved under all but the most exceptional clinical conditions

This work is intended to serve as guidance for the radiation safety evaluations of future ZAP-X treatmentoperations, following local or regional applicable regulatory requirements, and utilizing the uniqueprovision of all or most of the required shielding material as an integral part of the device