Radiation Oncology

External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)

There are several EBRT procedures, each using a specific type of radiation delivered from outside the body.

The procedures vary in the intensity and types of radiation used.

Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT)
Using 3D scans, oncologists can deliver radiation in the precise shape and size of the tumor, keeping the radiation away from healthy cells.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
IMRT uses multiple small beams of radiation of varying intensity to better target a growth.

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
This procedure uses computer imaging technology to develop a picture of the cancerous tumor. This helps guide the radiation beam during therapy.

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT)
During SBRT, the cancer patient is positioned using special equipment to allow the equipment to precisely deliver large doses of radiation.

High-dose radiation therapy

In the high-dose radiation therapy procedure, a powerful radioactive source is placed in the body for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, usually a couple of times a day for a few days.

This differs from internal radiation therapy as no radiative material is left in the body between treatments.

Internal radiation therapy/Brachytherapy

This radiation treatment includes placing a radioactive implant inside the body near the affected area. The implant might be temporary (days or weeks) or permanent.

This kind of radiation therapy helps deliver a consistent dosage to keep cancer cells from returning.

Before treatment

While your cancer treatment plan will be created specifically for you, all plans start off with a few basic steps, such as:

• Meeting with your cancer care team
• Giving your consent to be treated with radiation therapy
• Discussing your cancer treatment plan with your care team
• Doing things to prepare your body for radiation therapy treatment, including taking prescribed medications and upping your water intake

During treatment

While your cancer care team is carrying out your care plan, you can do several things to help your radiation therapy go smoother:

• Ask questions to relieve anxiety
• Relay any radiation therapy side effects to your care team
• Stay hydrated and well-nourished

After treatment

Your cancer care team may require follow-ups after radiation therapy treatment to check on you.

It’s important to keep these appointments if possible.

The first few days and weeks after radiation treatment are important, as well.

To give yourself the best chance to bounce back:

• Get extra rest. While your body focuses on repairing itself after radiation therapy, allow it to go easy on activity, stress and exercise.
• Drink plenty of liquids. Replenish your body with water or other clear liquids to give it the help it needs to stay strong during cancer treatment.
• Seek emotional support. Lean on friends and family to help until you’re back to 100%, or explore our many support and survivorship groups.
• Call your local cancer center if you need assistance or have questions. For patients with cancer, no concern is too small.