Name of the Procedure:

Radiation Therapy Management for Complete Course of Therapy Consisting of 1 or 2 Fractions
Common Names: Stereotactic Radiation Therapy, Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy
Medical Term: Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Summary

Radiation therapy with 1 or 2 fractions is a treatment that delivers high doses of radiation in one or two sessions. It is designed to target and destroy cancer cells while limiting damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Purpose

Primarily used to treat small, localized cancers or tumors. The goal is to eliminate cancer cells, shrink tumors, or alleviate symptoms with minimal side effects.

Indications

• Small, well-defined tumors or cancers (e.g., early-stage lung cancer, spinal tumors)
• Patients who cannot undergo surgery
• Patients requiring rapid symptom relief
• Cases where conventional radiation therapy would take too long or be less effective

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo imaging tests (CT, MRI) for accurate tumor mapping.
• Discussions on current medications and possible adjustments.
• Specific instructions on eating/drinking before the session, if any.

Procedure Description

1. Patient positioning and immobilization to ensure precise targeting.
2. Imaging techniques (CT, MRI) are used to delineate the tumor and surrounding organs at risk.
3. Creation of a detailed treatment plan by a radiation oncologist.
4. Delivery of precise radiation doses:
   • High-energy beams are directed at the tumor from multiple angles.
5. Each session typically involves:
   • Initial setup and positioning (15-30 minutes)
   • Actual radiation delivery (1-5 minutes)
6. No anesthesia is usually required, but comfort measures are taken.

Duration

Each fraction/session lasts approximately 15-60 minutes, including setup and delivery.

Setting

Outpatient setting at a hospital or specialized radiation therapy center.

Personnel

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

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Skin irritation or mild burns
• Fatigue Rare complications:
• Damage to surrounding tissues leading to pain or dysfunction
• Secondary cancers (very rare) Management involves symptomatic care and close monitoring.

Benefits

• Rapid symptom relief
• High precision minimizes damage to healthy tissue
• Shorter treatment compared to conventional therapy Benefits are often realized within days to weeks.

Recovery

• Mild to moderate fatigue can occur; normal activities can usually be resumed shortly.
• Skin care instructions to manage irritation.
• Scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor response and manage any side effects.

Alternatives

• Conventional radiation therapy (prolonged course, typically 5-7 weeks)
• Surgical removal of tumors (if feasible)
• Chemotherapy or immunotherapy
• Pros: Conventional therapy is less intense per session.
• Cons: Longer treatment duration, more visits, possibly more side effects.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Minimal discomfort; similar to having an X-ray. After the procedure:
• Possible fatigue and skin irritation.
• Pain management with over-the-counter medication, if needed.
• Normal activities can often be continued with minor adjustments.