Name of the Procedure:

Radiation treatment delivery, ≥1 MeV; simple
(Common Name: Radiation Therapy, Radiotherapy)

Summary

Radiation treatment uses high-energy particles or waves, such as x-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, or protons, to destroy or damage cancer cells. A simple form of radiation therapy involves directing these high-energy particles at the cancer from outside the body using a machine.

Purpose

Radiation treatment is used to treat various types of cancer. The goal is to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.

Indications

• Diagnosed cancer requiring localized treatment
• Tumors that are hard to remove surgically
• Needing to reduce symptoms (palliative care)
• For patients where other treatments have been ineffective or are not an option

Preparation

• Fasting is usually not required.
• Specific pre-procedure instructions should be followed, as provided by the healthcare provider.
• Initial assessments typically include imaging tests like CT, MRI, or PET scans.
• A planning session, called simulation, to map out the precise area to be treated.

Procedure Description

1. Patient is positioned on a treatment table.
2. Immobilization devices may be used to ensure the patient remains still.
3. A linear accelerator (LINAC) delivers high-energy radiation beams to the targeted area.
4. The treatment may be delivered from different angles to maximize effectiveness and minimize damage to surrounding tissue.
5. Sessions typically last a few minutes each and are usually given five days a week over several weeks.

Duration

Each session typically takes 10-30 minutes. The overall treatment duration spans several weeks, depending on the individual treatment plan.

Setting

The procedure is conducted in a hospital or specialized outpatient radiotherapy clinic.

Personnel

• Radiation Oncologist (supervises treatment)
• Radiation Therapist (operates the machine and positions the patient)
• Medical Physicist (ensures correct dosage and machine calibration)
• Oncology Nurse (provides care and support)

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation or burns at the treatment site
• Fatigue
• Changes in skin color or texture
• Potential damage to nearby tissues or organs
• Rare risks include secondary cancers or long-term changes in the treated area

Benefits

• Reduces or eliminates tumors
• Alleviates pain or other symptoms
• Can be a non-invasive alternative to surgery
• Can improve quality of life and survival rates for cancer patients

Recovery

• Most patients can return to daily activities shortly after treatment.
• Post-procedure care includes managing potential side effects such as skin care for radiation burns.
• Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor progress and manage any long-term effects.

Alternatives

• Surgery to physically remove the tumor
• Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells
• Immunotherapy, which boosts the body’s immune response against cancer cells
• Each alternative has its own set of benefits and risks that should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel slight discomfort during positioning but typically do not feel the radiation itself.
• Fatigue is a common side effect during and after the course of treatment.
• Supportive care and symptom management strategies may be provided to maintain comfort.