The effect of vibration generated by demolition work on irradiation position accuracy of stereotactic radiotherapy system

PURPOSE: One existing building, adjacent to the radiotherapy building, where stereotactic radiation was done, was to be demolished to give space for the construction of a new building. However, we were concerned that the vibrations generated by this demolition work, which occurred within 2 m from the radiotherapy building, would affect the radiation position accuracy of the radiotherapy machine. METHODS: To determine whether radiotherapy could be performed safely during the demolition period, we performed simulation tests involving the vibrations generated during demolition, measured these vibrations, and verified their effect on the irradiation position accuracy of the stereotactic radiotherapy system. For effective evaluations, tests were conducted assuming the maximum vibrations that could occur during actual demolition work. RESULTS: The maximum displacement of the vibrations generated by the simulated demolition work was 3.30 µm on the floor of the treatment room and 4.68 µm at the ceiling. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the vibration measurements exceeded the limits of the criteria applicable to the electron beam system. However, the accuracy of the irradiation position of the stereotactic radiotherapy system remained unchanged during these vibrations. Therefore, the vibrations had no impact on radiotherapy safety, and radiotherapy was continued during the demolition work while coordinating with the demolition workers as necessary.