Name of the Procedure:

Radiation Treatment Delivery, ≥1 MeV; Intermediate
Common name(s): Radiation therapy

Summary

Radiation therapy is a medical procedure where high-energy radiation, typically equal to or greater than 1 million electron volts (MeV), is targeted at cancerous tissues to destroy or damage cancer cells. It is often referred to simply as "radiation treatment."

Purpose

The primary goal of radiation therapy is to eliminate cancer cells or shrink tumors, thereby controlling or curing the disease. It can also be used to alleviate symptoms in cases where curing the cancer is not feasible.

Indications

• Various types of cancer (e.g., breast, prostate, lung)
• Tumors that are inoperative or partially operable
• Cancer that has metastasized to other body parts
• Recurrent cancer after previous treatment

Preparation

• Consultations with an oncologist and a radiation therapist
• Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET scans) for precise tumor mapping
• Skin markings or molds to ensure accurate targeting
• Instructions on diet, medications, and skin care specific to the treatment area
• Possible guidelines on fasting or hydration

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on a specialized table.
2. Radiation machines (linear accelerators) deliver precise radiation beams to the targeted area.
3. Adjustments are made for patient comfort and accuracy using immobilization devices.
4. The radiation is carefully directed to avoid healthy tissues.
5. The patient must remain still during the procedure, but it is painless.
6. Radiation therapists monitor the patient and equipment from a control room.

Duration

Each session typically lasts about 15-30 minutes. The entire course of treatment may span several weeks, with sessions occurring daily, five times a week.

Setting

Radiation therapy is usually conducted in a hospital's oncology or radiotherapy department, or in specialized outpatient clinics.

Personnel

• Radiation Oncologist
• Radiation Therapist
• Medical Physicist
• Oncology Nurse

Risks and Complications

Common:

• Skin irritation or burns
• Fatigue
• Hair loss at the treatment site

Rare:

• Damage to surrounding healthy tissues
• Secondary cancers later in life
• Long-term changes to blood counts

Benefits

• Improved cancer control or cure rates
• Shrinkage of tumors
• Relief of symptoms such as pain or bleeding
• Typically, noticeable benefits develop several weeks after starting treatment.

Recovery

• Follow special skin care instructions if applicable
• Mild to moderate fatigue may persist
• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring progress and side effects
• Physical activity and diet may need adjustment based on tolerability

Alternatives

• Surgery: Effective for localized tumors but invasive
• Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment but has widespread side effects
• Immunotherapy: Uses the immune system to fight cancer but can be expensive
• Hormone therapy: Targets specific cancers but also affects hormone levels
• Watchful waiting: Monitoring without immediate intervention; only suitable for select cases

Each alternative has its own pros and cons that need consideration based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as patient health and preferences.

Patient Experience

During:

• No pain, but must remain still
• Hearing machine noises

After:

• Possible skin tenderness
• Continued fatigue
• Generally manageable with proper care and guidance
• Specific instructions provided for managing side effects and promoting recovery

Pain and discomfort are usually minimal, but support and pain management options are available if needed.