What is Radiation Therapy?
As diverse as the types of cancer are the treatment possibilities,  which include radiation therapy, chemotherapy,  surgery and combinations of these.  In particular,  radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays,  electrons or other forms of radiation for the treatment of cancer,  and can be prescribed with curative intent or for relief of symptoms.

The Use of Radiation Therapy
Patients are referred to a radiation oncologist to determine whether their conditions can be improved by radiation.  Because each individual patient’s disease is unique,  thorough analysis on a case-by-case basis is necessary for the best treatment.  This analysis begins with a physical examination,  a review of previous hospital records,  x-rays and other pertinent information.  If radiation treatments are indicated, the radiation oncologist will then plan the best possible way to deliver these treatments.  In some instances radiation therapy may offer patients the opportunity to treat their cancer while preserving organ function.  An example of organ preservation is the use of radiation therapy in conjunction with limited surgery to treat breast cancer. 

The Radiation Oncology Staff
Headed by the radiation oncologist,  the team consists of several professionals who each play a vital role in the treatment process.  As a cancer specialist,  the radiation oncologist is a physician who has training and experience in using radiation equipment and radioactive materials for the treatment of cancer.  Medical physicists,  who are specially trained in radiation physics,  are responsible for calibrating and monitoring of all the radiation equipment used in treatments.  Additionally,  they assist the physician in formulating treatment plans that focus radiation on the tumor and limit the exposure of other organs to radiation.

After the radiation oncologist has prescribed the treatment,  a radiation therapist,  who has undergone extensive technological training,  delivers the radiation treatments each day to the patient.  Patients are regularly monitored by a physician,  and in addition,  a radiation therapy nurse may assist the patient with questions and any special needs throughout the course of treatment.

 Treatment Planning and Tumor Localization
Most cancers are located deep within the body and frequently in proximity to vital organs.  Therefore it is necessary to localize the affected area while striving to protect unaffected areas.  Localization devices utilized include CT Scanners,  Magnetic Resonance Imaging,  Ultrasound and Simulators.  Once an individual treatment plan is formulated,  markings on the patients’ skin are necessary in order to ensure the highest degree of reproducibility of the treatment site.  Some of these markings may be permanent.  The actual course of treatment varies depending on the type,  stage,  and location of the cancer,  and may extend from days to several weeks.

Treatment may require external radiation from a Linear Accelerator or may also require direct implantation of a radioactive element within the tumor itself.  Implantation of radioactive isotopes into or very close to tumors can be done to deliver the radiation dose to a more confined area within the body.