Radiation Therapy

Overview of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally, using a machine outside the body, or internally, by placing radioactive materials directly into or near the tumor.

Exploring Advanced Technologies & Techniques

Radiation therapy can be delivered using different techniques and modalities, including:

• External Beam Radiation Therapy 'EBRT-: EBRT delivers radiation from outside the body using a machine called a linear accelerator, which generates high-energy beams aimed at the tumor site. This technique is commonly used for solid tumors located deep within the body or in areas where precise targeting is required to spare nearby healthy tissues.
• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy 'IMRT-: IMRT is a specialized form of EBRT that allows for precise modulation of radiation intensity and beam angles, enabling the delivery of higher radiation doses to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding normal tissues.
• Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy 'SBRT-: SBRT delivers high doses of radiation to small tumors or localized areas of disease over a few treatment sessions, using advanced imaging techniques to precisely target the tumor while minimizing radiation exposure to nearby organs.
• Brachytherapy: Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor site, allowing for localized delivery of radiation while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This technique is commonly used for cancers of the cervix, prostate, or breast, as well as certain head and neck cancers.

Post-operative Care

To help manage side effects and improve quality of life during radiation therapy, patients may benefit from various supportive care measures, including:

• Skin Care: Gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and protection of the skin in the treatment area can help minimize irritation and promote healing during radiation therapy.
• Nutritional Support: Maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration is important during radiation therapy to support overall health, energy levels, and healing.
• Fatigue Management: Balancing rest with gentle physical activity and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help combat fatigue and improve overall well-being during radiation therapy.
• Pain Relief: Pain medications, topical treatments, or supportive devices such as cushions or braces may help alleviate discomfort or pain associated with radiation therapy.
• Psychosocial Support: Counseling, support groups, or relaxation techniques can provide emotional support, coping strategies, and practical resources for patients and their families facing the challenges of radiation therapy.

Recovery Timeline

The recovery timeline following radiation therapy varies depending on factors such as the type and dose of radiation, the area of the body treated, and individual patient factors such as overall health and pre-existing medical conditions. In general, patients may experience gradual improvement in symptoms and side effects over several weeks to months after completing radiation therapy. Follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are typically scheduled to monitor progress, assess treatment response, and address any lingering side effects or concerns.

Understanding Radiation Therapy Costs

Alternative Treatments and Surgeries

Transparency at Al Riaz Health Services

We're committed to providing personalized cost estimates considering individual medical conditions, surgeon expertise, technological requirements, and chosen hospital facilities within our network. This ensures informed decision-making and empowers patients to prioritize their health needs effectively.