What is Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy, also known as
radiation therapy, is a treatment method that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It works by damaging the DNA within cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Unlike normal cells, which can repair themselves from radiation-induced damage, cancer cells are less capable of doing so, making them more susceptible to the treatment.
External Beam Radiation: This is the most common form of radiotherapy. It involves directing radiation from a machine outside the body toward the cancerous area. The machine can rotate around the patient to target the tumor from different angles.
Internal Radiation Therapy: In this method, radioactive materials are placed inside the body near the cancer cells. This can be done through implants, seeds, or catheters. Brachytherapy is often used for cancers of the prostate, cervix, and breast.
How is Radiotherapy Planned and Administered?
The planning of radiotherapy involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, radiation therapists, and medical physicists. The process begins with a simulation session, where imaging techniques like
CT scans or
MRI are used to determine the exact location and size of the tumor. This information is used to create a detailed treatment plan that specifies the radiation dose and the areas to be targeted.
During the actual treatment, patients lie on a table while the radiation machine is positioned to deliver the precise dose of radiation. The process is usually painless and takes only a few minutes per session. Treatment schedules can vary but often involve daily sessions over several weeks.
Side Effects of Radiotherapy
While radiotherapy is effective in targeting cancer cells, it can also affect nearby healthy tissues, leading to side effects. These can vary depending on the treatment area and the individual patient but commonly include: Fatigue: A common side effect that can persist for weeks or months after treatment.
Skin Reactions: The treated area may become red, sore, or irritated, similar to a sunburn.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur, especially when treating abdominal or pelvic cancers.
Hair Loss: Generally occurs only in the area being treated.
Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with supportive care and medications. It's crucial for patients to discuss potential side effects with their healthcare team before starting treatment.
Benefits of Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy offers several advantages in cancer treatment: Non-Invasive: External beam radiation does not require surgery, reducing recovery time.
Precision: Advanced techniques like
IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and
proton therapy allow for highly precise targeting of tumors, sparing healthy tissues.
Combination Therapy: Radiotherapy can be used alongside other treatments like
chemotherapy or
surgery to enhance overall efficacy.
Symptom Relief: Even if not curative, radiotherapy can help alleviate symptoms like pain and bleeding, improving quality of life.
Conclusion
Radiotherapy remains a cornerstone in the treatment of various cancers, offering a targeted approach to destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. With advancements in technology and techniques, its efficacy and safety continue to improve, making it a vital component of modern oncologic care.
