HealthcareWhat Goes Into A Comprehensive Radiation Therapy Process?

Radiation therapy (also referred to as radiotherapy) involves using high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. The therapy is effective as a standalone treatment option. But, oncologists may use the treatment in conjunction with other therapies too.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy shrinks the size of the tumour before the surgery. The healthy cells surrounding the tumour may also be affected. However, the damage is not permanent.

If you wish to learn more about the treatment, you can visit websites such as https://www.targetingcancer.com.au/about-radiation-oncology/treatment-process/ that also explain how radiation doses are adjusted during the treatment.

Oncologists use radiation therapy after the surgery to remove the remaining cancer cells. It is also used to ease the symptoms of advanced cancers.

Two Main Types of Radiation Therapy

• External beam radiation therapy: A particular machine called the linear accelerator sends the radiation beams to the affected part. The machine offers localised treatment for the patient.
• Internal radiation therapy: The procedure involves sending a source of radiation into the body of the patient. The source of radiation can be a liquid or a solid.

External beam radiation therapy is more common. Oncologists recommend the treatment to most patients.

The Five Steps of External Radiation Therapy

Step 1: Consultation

The radiology oncologist reviews your medical records and pathology reports. A physical examination is also conducted. The following steps are taken if radiation therapy is considered the ideal treatment option based on your health and cancer status.

Step 2: The “Simulation” Process

During the simulation step, the radiation oncologist will determine the exact location of your tumour. Next, the configuration for your treatment is finalised based on x-rays or CT scans.

In some cases, contrast is injected into the body, and the CT scan is used to determine the patient’s treatment position. The main aim of the simulation step is to ensure that the radiation therapy is always directed towards the correct location.

Step 3: Customised Treatment Planning

The radiation oncologist uses different diagnostic tests to determine an optimised treatment plan for your tumour. The key is to direct high doses of radiation towards the tumour while protecting the surrounding tissues through limited quantities of high-energy beams. It generally takes over a week to complete the treatment planning process.

Step 4: Treatment Delivery

Radiation therapists work along with radiation oncologists to ensure the appropriate positioning of the patient for the treatment. Images are taken at continuous intervals to ensure the position is unchanged.

Each treatment session lasts for about 20 to 30 minutes. Most of the time is utilised to achieve accurate positioning. You will be sent to the patient exam room at the end of the session.

Step 5: Post-Treatment Care

In the exam room, radiation therapy nurses offer critical information about nutrition and skincare to combat the effects of radiation. Any concerns related to the treatment may be reported to the cancer care team.

After the recommended treatment schedule is completed, your oncologist will set up your first follow-up appointment. Specific tests and physical exams are conducted to monitor your progress and overall health status.

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