External-Beam Radiation Therapy
External-beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is a cancer treatment used to kill cancer cells with high-energy beams, such as x-rays. EBRT can be used to treat many different types of cancer, including breast, brain, lung, and prostate cancer. EBRT is usually given in multiple sessions over several weeks. If you are scheduled to receive EBRT, your radiation oncologist will develop a specific treatment plan. This plan will consider the type and stage of your cancer and your overall health.
Alternate Name
External-beam therapy (EBT)
Body Location
EBRT is used to treat many different types of cancer, including brain, breast, lung, and skin cancer.
How is it Performed?
External-beam radiation therapy is usually done outpatient, so you don't have to stay in the hospital overnight. The treatment itself only takes a few minutes, but you will need to be at the facility for about an hour so that the team can get you set up and positioned correctly. You will lie on a table during the procedure while a machine delivers radiation to the body area being treated. You will be alone in the room during the treatment, but the team will be able to see and hear you at all times. After the treatment is over, you can go home and rest. There are usually no side effects from this type of radiation therapy, but if you experience any, they will be temporary and should go away on their own within a few days.
Preparation
- Pre-procedure tests may include a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- You will be admitted to the hospital on the day of your procedure and a special CT-Scan will be done.
- You will be asked to follow a special diet before the procedure.
- You will be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure.
- After the procedure, you will be given instructions on caring for yourself at home.
- You will need to follow up with your doctor for regular check-ups.
Procedure Type
Treatment with external beam radiation therapy will start on an appointed date, once your doctor confirms your plan.
Follow Up
After the procedure is performed, the recommended follow-up care includes regular checkups with your doctor. You may also need to have periodic CT scans or other imaging tests to check on the status of your condition. Your doctor will let you know what to expect and how often you should have follow-up appointments. After the procedure is performed, routine follow-up care includes regular checkups with your doctor, self-care measures to help manage side effects, and close monitoring for any signs of cancer recurrence. Your doctor will develop a follow-up care plan tailored to your individual needs.
Risks
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Damage to healthy tissue and organs
Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams to target and kills cancer cells. Unfortunately, the beams can also damage nearby healthy cells. The side effects depend on what part of the body is being treated.
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Fatigue
A common side effect of radiation therapy, it usually starts a few weeks after treatment and worsens as treatment continues. Fatigue can last for a few weeks to months after treatment ends.
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Skin reactions
The skin in the treated area may become red, dry, and tender. These reactions usually go away a few weeks after treatment ends, but some skin changes may be permanent.
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Hair loss
Radiation therapy to the head or neck can cause hair loss. The hair usually grows back after treatment, but it may be a different colour or texture.
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Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of radiation therapy. They usually start during the first week of treatment and go away after a few days.
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Weight loss
Weight loss is a known side effect which can be prevented or reduced by appropriate diet management and care at home.
Recovery
There is no set recovery period after external-beam radiation therapy. Most people feel tired for a few weeks after treatment. Fatigue may persist for months or even years. It is essential to pace yourself and listen to your body during this time. Other possible side effects include skin reactions, nausea, and diarrhoea. These side effects are usually temporary and will go away after treatment is completed. Some people may also experience hair loss in the treated area.
Your doctor can give you more information about what to expect during and after treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or radiation therapist. They will be with you every step and can help you manage any side effects you may experience. With their help, you can get through treatment and on your way to recovery.
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