Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy (or radiation therapy) is a treatment method that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It’s often used in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.

We employ the latest technologies and adhere to the highest standards of care to ensure effective treatment while minimising side effects. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates closely with patients to develop tailored treatment plans and provide ongoing support throughout their journey.

talk to a specialist

Here’s an overview of radiotherapy, including its types, purposes, administration, and side effects:

Types of Radiotherapy

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT):
- Technique: Uses a machine called a linear accelerator to direct high-energy beams of radiation (such as X-rays or electrons) at the tumor from outside the body.
- Commonly Used For: Various cancers, including breast, prostate, lung, and brain tumors.
Brachytherapy:
- Technique: Involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or near the tumor. This allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered to the cancer while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
- Commonly Used For: Prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and some types of breast cancer.
Stereotactic Radiation Therapy:
- Types: Includes Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT).
- Technique: Delivers highly focused radiation beams to precise tumor locations, often in fewer treatment sessions.
- Commonly Used For: Brain tumors and small tumors in the lungs, liver, or spine.

Purposes of Radiotherapy

Curative Treatment: To eliminate cancer cells and potentially cure the disease, especially in localized tumors.
Adjuvant Therapy: To reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery by targeting remaining cancer cells.
Palliative Care: To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced cancer cases, such as pain from bone metastases.

Administration

Planning: Before treatment, imaging studies (like CT scans) are conducted to create a detailed treatment plan. This ensures accurate targeting of the tumor.
Session Schedule: Treatment is typically delivered in multiple sessions (fractions), which may last several weeks, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Side Effects

While radiotherapy can be effective, it can also cause side effects, including:

Skin Reactions: Redness, irritation, or peeling in the treated area.
Fatigue: A common side effect that may persist for some time after treatment ends.
Localized Side Effects: Depending on the treatment area, side effects can include mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, or changes in appetite.
Long-Term Effects: Some patients may experience long-term side effects, such as changes in organ function or the development of secondary cancers, though these are relatively rare.