Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses focused radiation beams to destroy cancer cells in a specific area, while chemotherapy uses drugs that circulate throughout the body to kill rapidly dividing cells. They are often used together as part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan.

Radiotherapy planning involves a CT simulation scan to map the tumor location, followed by computerized dose calculations to maximize radiation to the tumor while protecting surrounding healthy tissue. Custom molds and masks may be created for positioning accuracy.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy is an advanced form of external beam radiation that uses computer-controlled beams of varying intensity to deliver precise doses to the tumor from multiple angles, reducing radiation exposure to adjacent healthy tissue.

The radiation treatment itself is painless and similar to having an X-ray taken. Each session takes only a few minutes of actual radiation delivery. Side effects such as skin irritation, fatigue, or area-specific symptoms may develop over the course of treatment.

The number of sessions depends on the cancer type, location, and treatment goal. Conventional treatment involves daily sessions five days a week for three to seven weeks. Shorter courses with higher daily doses, called hypofractionation, are used for certain cancers.