A method which coordinates proton beam irradiation with an open magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) unit to achieve near-simultaneous, noninvasive
localization and radiotherapy of various cell lines in various anatomic
locations. A reference image of the target aids in determining a treatment
plan and repositioning the patient within the MRI unit for later
treatments. The patient is located within the MRI unit so that the target
and the proton beam are coincident. MRI monitors the location of the
target. Target irradiation occurs when the target and the proton beam are
coincident as indicated by the MRI monitoring. The patient rotates
relative to the radiation source. The target again undergoes monitoring
and selective irradiation. The rotation and selective irradiation during
MRI monitoring repeats according to the treatment plan.
