We know that the diagnosis of cancer may seem scary. At Peninsula Cancer Center, we’re committed to providing the very best in oncology care to help you feel supported through this process.
What
is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy uses ionizing radiation produced by a Linear Accelerator
to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. The radiation passes through
the body and delivers dose (the quantity of radiation administered
and absorbed) to the affected area while minimizing dose to the
skin and tissue it passes through.
Although the radiation affects both cancer and normal cells, it has a greater effect on the cancer cells, damaging their genetic material and making it impossible for these cells to continue to grow and divide. Treatment aimed at cure will give the highest possible dose of radiation to the cancer area (within safe limits) to attempt to kill all the cancer cells. Sometimes smaller doses are used, where the aim is to reduce the size of a tumor and/or relieve symptoms.
Radiation therapy is used to both cure disease and alleviate the symptoms of cancer. There also are several non-malignant conditions treated using radiation therapy.
What happens during radiation therapy?
Here are the steps you’ll go through at Peninsula Cancer Center:
1. Visit with the radiation oncologist:
The radiation oncologist will review you medical history, conduct a
physical exam and discuss with you and your family recommendations
for treatment.
2. Simulation
In preparation to undergo radiotherapy, we obtain a CT scan in the
treatment position and aligned to our equipment. CT scanning
is required to determine the exact size, shape and position of the
area to be treated within the body, known as the treatment site. These
images are then used to plan the patients’ treatment. Previous MRI
and/or PET scan will sometimes be merged with the treatment planning
CT in order to best visualize the treatment site. During the simulation
process, marks with ink and tiny tattoos will be place on the body
for daily alignment puposes.
3. Treatment Planning
Once your images have been taken, your physician develops a treatment
plan. The treatment plan is created using treatment planning software,
which calculates the position, dose and frequency of the treatment.
Before treatment commences the treatment may be simulated again,
i.e., performed on a non-treating machine, to ensure the correct treatment
will be delivered later. (A dress rehearsal to make sure that everything
is correct before the actual treatment takes place).
4. Treatment
Treatment is outpatient. To receive the radiation therapy, you will
lie on a couch under the machine, and be asked to remain still during
the actual treatment. The treatment is completely painless. Radiation
cannot be seen or felt while it’s being given. It’s important
that the treatment plan is adhered to as any missed treatments (caused
through sickness or equipment breakdown) may affect the success. The
patient usually receives the same treatment each day for a course of
treatment, which can last up to six to eight weeks. Treatment is monitored
regularly and may be adjusted if the patient suffers from adverse side
effects.
5. Follow-up
Once the course of treatment is complete, you will meet with the radiation
oncologist to formulate a follow-up plan. The plan will be tailored
to your needs and accommodate the other physicians that may be involved
in your care as well. We will also discuss ways of returning
you to optimal wellness.