External Radiation Therapy

Overview

External radiation therapy is a targeted cancer treatment that uses a radiation machine to destroy cancer cells in specific areas of the body. It is effective for various cancer types and delivers radiation precisely to malignant tumors.

Alternate Name

Procedure Type: Radiation

Body Location

Affected body area (localized treatment)

Preparation for External Radiation Therapy

Before treatment, the doctor performs a thorough evaluation, including medical history review and imaging tests, to plan the therapy. Patients are informed about the procedure, potential side effects, and self-care measures. They are advised to wear comfortable, soft fabrics like cotton during treatment.

How External Radiation Therapy is Performed

The therapy is administered using a linear accelerator, which delivers radiation to the targeted area. The machine rotates around the patient to ensure precise treatment while sparing healthy tissues. Types of external radiation therapy include:

  1. 3-D Conformal Radiation Therapy:
    • Targets irregularly shaped tumors while protecting nearby healthy tissues.
  2. Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT):
    • Uses advanced computer software to deliver customized radiation doses based on the tumor’s size, shape, and location.
  3. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT):
    • Adjusts radiation fields in real-time if the tumor shifts position, ensuring accurate targeting.
  4. Tomotherapy:
    • Combines CT imaging with radiation delivery for precise treatment of tumors.
  5. Stereotactic Radiation Therapy:
    • Delivers high doses of radiation to small tumors with extreme precision, using stereotactic radiosurgery or body radiation therapy.

Follow-Up After External Radiation Therapy

Patients should follow their oncologist’s guidance for follow-up care, which usually includes:

  • A post-treatment check-up six weeks after therapy to assess the tumor’s response.
  • Ongoing mental health support and reporting of any concerns to the doctor.
  • Recommendations for further steps, if necessary.

Recovery After External Radiation Therapy

  • Recovery time depends on the type of cancer and tumor size.
  • Most side effects are temporary and subside within a few days post-treatment.
  • Patients are encouraged to consult their doctor for specific recovery guidance and routine follow-ups.

For personalized care and further information, always discuss concerns with your healthcare provider.