Why is Radiotherapy Used?
Radiotherapy is used to treat various types of cancer, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. It can be employed to cure cancer, control its progression, or relieve symptoms in advanced cases.
Benefits of Radiotherapy
- Effective in targeting cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.
- Can be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate residual cancer cells.
- Can relieve pain and other symptoms in palliative care.
Types of Radiotherapy
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Uses a machine outside the body to direct radiation towards the tumor.
- Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): Involves placing radioactive sources inside the body near the cancer site.
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): Delivers precise, high-dose radiation in fewer sessions.
What to Expect from Radiotherapy?
Patients may experience fatigue, skin irritation, and localized side effects depending on the treated area. Treatment is typically given in multiple sessions over days or weeks.
Evaluation and Procedure
A radiation oncologist determines the treatment plan based on imaging studies and patient condition. Sessions last a few minutes but require preparation to position the patient accurately.
Duration of Radiotherapy
Treatment duration varies but often spans several weeks, with sessions held five days a week.