Prior to Procedure -You will go through a process called simulation. This process takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours. During simulation, you will: Lie on an exam table while a radiation therapist uses an x-ray machine to define the exact place(s) where radiation will be directed. The therapist may mark the exact radiation area with colored ink. You will probably also have a small tatoo (or several) placed on your skin as a permanent mark to help with the aiming of the radiation beam.Depending on the type of treatment required, you may also undergo: CT scan – a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the bodyMeasurement for immobilization devices to help you stay still during treatmentDescription of the Procedure - The radiation therapist positions you on the treatment table or chair. Then the therapist leaves the room and enters a control room, where he or she controls the movements of the radiation machine (called a linear accelerator) to deliver radiation to the predetermined areas on your body. The most common sources of the radiation are x-rays, electron beams, and cobalt-60 gamma rays.You will need to remain extremely still during the treatment, which lasts from 1 – 5 minutes. The therapist can see you through a television screen, and you can talk with the therapist if you feel uncomfortable or sick.After Procedure -You are free to leave and resume your normal activities. You are not radioactive after your treatment and you are not a threat to anyone else around you, in terms of radiation exposure. How Long Will It Take? The actual treatment takes only a few minutes, but you should allow at least 30 minutes for each session. Most treatments last from 2 to 8 weeks, and are given once a day, five days per week. In some cases you may be treated twice daily or only three times a week, and this will depend on various factors. Discuss the logistics of the actual scheduling with your radiation oncologist.Possible Complications: External radiation does not cause your body to become radioactive. You may, however, experience side effects. These effects will vary depending on the type and location of cancer treatment. Common side effects of radiation include, but are not limited, to: GeneralFatigueSkin changes (redness, irritation)Reduced white blood cell countHeadHair lossBreastDryness or itchiness of the breastsBreast or nipple sorenessFluid buildupTanning in irradiated areaMouth, Stomach, or IntestineAppetite lossNausea, vomiting, or diarrheaMouth ulcersDifficulty swallowingPelvic RegionBladder irritationVaginal itching, burning, dryness, or menstrual cessationReduction of sexual desirePossible loss of fertilityAverage Hospital Stay – None; external radiation is typically done on an outpatient basis.
