Radiation Therapy Treatment
Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy can help you in your fight against cancer. It begins with a planning visit to map out your treatment. During the treatment course, you’ll meet with your doctor on a routine basis. After your therapy is done, you will have one or more follow-up visits to check your progress. Keep all your appointments.
Your Treatment Planning Visit
Your radiation therapy team uses a special machine called a simulator to map out your treatment. The simulator is an x-ray or CT (computerized tomography) scan machine. This machine mimics the actual radiation equipment. Laser lights act as guides to help position your body accurately. During this visit:
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The radiation beam is shaped to hit cancer cells and avoid as many normal cells as possible.
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The best position for your body is determined. Notes are made in your chart so you’ll be placed the same way each time.
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Special devices may be used to keep your body correctly positioned and still during treatment. These may include molds, masks, rests, and blocks.
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Ink marks are made on your skin over the spot to be treated. Tiny permanent tattoos may also be used. The marks act as a target for the treatment to stay at the exact same place each time.
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Markers, such as metal balls or wires, may be placed on or in your body. These work with the x-rays to position your body. The markers are removed when the visit is over.
Your Treatments
Each treatment usually takes
