Overview

Radiation therapy is a form of treatment used in radiation oncology, involves the use of high-energy radiation to treat various types of cancers. It works by targeting and destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This treatment can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is often used for cancers of the prostate, breast, lung and other parts of the body.

Why Radiation Therapy Treatment is Required?

• Cancer Treatment: It is primarily used to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors, and reduce the spread of cancer.
• Prostate and Breast Cancer: Radiation therapy plays a vital role in treating prostate cancer, breast cancer and other cancers by targeting specific areas of the body.
• Pain Relief: For cancers that cause significant pain, radiation therapy can help alleviate symptoms.
• Surgery Alternative: In some cases, radiation can serve as an alternative when surgery is not feasible.
• Post-Surgery: It can be used after surgery to ensure that any remaining cancer cells are destroyed.

Key Advantages of Radiation Therapy Treatment

• Effective in Targeting Cancer: Radiation is highly effective in targeting cancer cells, particularly when combined with other treatments.
• Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, radiation therapy does not require incisions or cuts.
• Variety of Options: There are different types of radiation therapies, such as external beam radiation (EBRT) and proton therapy, allowing for a tailored approach.
• Outpatient Treatment: Most radiation treatments are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day.
• Localised Treatment: Radiation treatment for prostate cancer, lung cancer, and other cancers can be targeted precisely, limiting the effect on healthy tissue.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Radiation Therapy Treatment

• Consultation: You will need to meet with a radiation oncologist to discuss your treatment plan and expectations.
• Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be performed to help map out the exact area that needs treatment.
• Skin Care: If you are receiving external radiation therapy (XRT), it's important to avoid sunburn or skin irritations in the treated area.
• Avoid Certain Foods: Some foods may increase side effects, so your doctor will advise you on what to avoid.
• Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes on the day of your treatment to ensure comfort during the procedure.

How Radiation Therapy Treatment is Performed?

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This is the most common method where radiation is delivered from outside the body using a machine called a linear accelerator.
• Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer: Internal radiation therapy is used for prostate cancer by placing radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland.
• Proton Therapy: A precise form of radiation therapy that uses protons instead of x-rays to target cancer cells.
• Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): This technique delivers high doses of radiation with high precision, typically used for tumors in hard-to-reach areas.
• Sessions: Radiation therapy often requires multiple sessions, which could be spread over weeks, depending on the type of cancer and the treatment plan.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

You will be positioned comfortably on the treatment table.

A custom mold or device may be used to keep you in the same position during each session.

You may be asked to mark the treatment area with small, permanent tattoos.

2. During the Procedure:

The treatment itself is painless. You will be asked to remain still while the machine delivers radiation.

The radiation therapist will operate the machine from another room but will be able to communicate with you at all times.

3. After the Procedure:

There is no downtime. You can typically go back to your regular activities.

You may experience mild fatigue or skin irritation, but serious side effects are rare.

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress.

Risk and Potential Complications

a. Side Effects of Radiation Therapy:

Skin Changes: Redness, irritation, or peeling skin may occur.

Fatigue: Many patients report feeling tired during treatment.

Localized Effects: Depending on the treatment area, you might experience side effects like difficulty swallowing, pain, or changes in bowel function.

Long-term Risks: Though rare, radiation therapy may increase the risk of developing other types of cancer in the future.

b. Side Effects for Specific Cancers:

Breast Cancer Radiation Side Effects: Skin irritation, changes in breast shape, or discomfort after radiation therapy.

Lung Cancer Radiation Side Effects: Cough, shortness of breath, or lung irritation.

Prostate Cancer Radiation Side Effects: Difficulty urinating, sexual dysfunction, or bowel changes.

Results/Outcomes

Success Rate: The success of radiation therapy depends on the cancer type and stage. Generally, radiation therapy has a high success rate for prostate and breast cancers.

Effectiveness in Combination: Radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy or hormone therapy can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

Long-term Outcomes: Most patients experience positive long-term outcomes with the right follow-up care and lifestyle adjustments after treatment.