Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a common treatment modality used in cancer care. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the type and location of the cancer being treated. Here’s an overview of radiotherapy:
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): In EBRT, radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body, targeting the tumor and surrounding tissues. The radiation is carefully aimed at the tumor site to minimize damage to healthy tissues. EBRT is commonly used to treat a variety of cancers, including those of the breast, prostate, lung, and brain.
Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): In brachytherapy, radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumor site. This allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered precisely to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Brachytherapy is often used to treat cancers of the cervix, uterus, prostate, and certain other sites.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): SBRT and SRS are advanced forms of radiation therapy that deliver highly focused, high-dose radiation to tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. SBRT is typically used to treat tumors in the body, such as those in the lung, liver, or spine, while SRS is used to treat tumors in the brain.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): IMRT and IGRT are advanced techniques that allow for precise targeting of tumors while sparing nearby healthy tissues. IMRT delivers radiation beams of varying intensities to conform to the shape of the tumor, while IGRT uses imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI to guide the delivery of radiation with pinpoint accuracy.
Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors and make them easier to remove, or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Palliative Radiation Therapy: Palliative radiation therapy is used to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with advanced cancer. It can help alleviate pain, reduce tumor size, and alleviate symptoms such as bleeding or obstruction.