What is radiotherapy?
In simple terms, radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy or control cancer cells and other target cells.
These beams are carefully planned and directed at the area needing treatment, delivering the appropriate dose to the target while minimizing exposure of surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiotherapy can be compared to a Precise targeting as an approach in which the team aims to deliver radiation as precisely as possible while protecting nearby healthy tissue.
What are the goals of radiotherapy?
The specialist may prescribe radiotherapy for different goals according to the disease and the patient's condition.
Primary treatment
In some circumstances, radiotherapy is one of the main treatments to control or eliminate a tumor.
Before surgery
In some cases, it is used to shrink a tumor and prepare the patient for surgery.
After surgery
It may be used to eliminate possible remaining cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Symptom relief
For some patients, radiotherapy aims to relieve pain or other symptoms and improve quality of life.
Types of radiotherapy
Radiotherapy can generally be divided into two main categories.
External beam radiotherapy
External Beam Radiation
is a common type of radiotherapy in which a linear accelerator directs radiation from outside the body to the treatment area.
The machine may move around the patient during treatment, delivering radiation according to the plan without touching the body.
Internal radiotherapy
Brachytherapy
In brachytherapy, a radioactive source is placed inside the body, in or near the treatment area, delivering radiation from very close to the target tissue.
The type and delivery of brachytherapy depend on the disease location and type and the patient's treatment plan.
Treatment, step by step
Understanding treatment can help reduce stress and anxiety. Treatment usually involves several main stages.
Step 1: Examination and consultation
First, a radiation oncology specialist examines the patient and reviews medical records, images and test results.
The most appropriate treatment plan is then selected according to the patient's condition, and the process is explained.
Step 2: Simulation (CT Simulation)
A simulation session is performed before the main treatment. The patient lies on a CT simulator couch to obtain detailed images of the area.
Special immobilization devices, such as masks for head and neck treatment, may be used to keep the body in the appropriate position.
Step 3: Treatment planning
After imaging, the radiation oncologist and medical physicists use specialist software to design the precise radiation plan.
The aim is to deliver the appropriate dose to the target volume while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy organs.
Step 4: Treatment sessions begin
Radiotherapy sessions start after the plan is approved. The number of sessions and visit schedule vary according to the disease and the team's decision for each patient.
Is radiotherapy painful?
Radiation delivery itself is usually not painful. Radiation is invisible, and patients usually feel nothing while it is delivered.
The machine may make various normal operating sounds. Delivery time varies with treatment type, and radiation is usually delivered during only part of the time spent in the treatment room.
The radiotherapy team monitors patients through video and audio systems throughout treatment.
Does radiation remain in the body after treatment?
Patients and caregivers often ask whether a patient poses a risk to others after radiotherapy.
in External beam radiotherapy , radiation is produced and delivered only while the machine is active. No radiation remains in the body after exposure, so the patient poses no radiation risk to others in this respect.
Special internal radiotherapy methods, such as brachytherapy, may involve different precautions. Follow your care team's specific advice.
Side effects: what you should know
Like many medical treatments, radiotherapy may cause side effects. Their type and severity depend on the treatment area, dose, number of sessions and individual patient factors.
Fatigue
Fatigue is relatively common during radiotherapy and may increase as treatment continues.
Skin changes
Skin in the treatment area may become red, dry, darker or sensitive.
Treatment-area-specific effects
Other side effects may occur depending on the area being treated. Your medical team will explain these.
Important: Many radiotherapy side effects are temporary, but their duration and severity vary. Tell your care team about any new symptoms.
Self-care during treatment
A few simple steps can help conserve energy and manage some side effects.
Get enough rest
Listen to your body and allow time for adequate rest and sleep.
Skin care
Gently wash the treatment area, avoid friction and very tight clothes, and consult your care team before using a new cream or ointment.
Nutrition and fluids
Sufficient fluids and a balanced diet can help maintain energy during treatment.
Contact your care team
Tell your doctor or nurse about any pain, burning, skin changes or new symptoms.
The key role of family and caregivers
Support from family and caregivers can help reduce emotional stress and assist patients throughout treatment.
Understanding the need for rest
Fatigue and weakness may occur during radiotherapy. A calm environment and reducing unnecessary demands can help.
Help with transport
As many radiotherapy plans involve multiple sessions, help with transport can reduce some of the patient's physical and emotional burden.
A calm, supportive environment
Calm conversation, companionship and emotional support can help patients experience treatment with greater peace of mind.
Informed support
Caregivers should obtain information from the medical team about the treatment process and possible side effects, and report any significant changes.
Important tips for patients
Does everyone need the same number of sessions?
No. The number of sessions depends on the disease type and location, treatment goals, the patient's condition and the care team's plan.
Can I stay active during treatment?
Many patients can continue some daily activities according to their physical condition. The appropriate activity level should be decided with the care team.
What should I do if I develop side effects?
Do not treat side effects on your own. Report new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, nurse or radiotherapy team for appropriate guidance.
Important: This article provides general information about radiotherapy and does not replace medical diagnosis, advice or a treatment plan. Each patient's treatment is determined by the care team according to their individual circumstances.