Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, a cornerstone of modern medicine, is a powerful tool used to treat a wide range of conditions, including cancer. By delivering precise doses of high-energy particles, usually X-rays or protons, radiation therapy targets and damages cancer cells, hindering their ability to grow and multiply. While radiation therapy is a well-established treatment, we understand that concerns about potential side effects and treatment duration are common. At Artemis Hospitals, we are committed to providing advanced radiation therapy techniques that minimise discomfort and maximise effectiveness. Our team of experienced radiation oncologists, therapists, and nursing staff work together to deliver compassionate care and support to patients every step of the way.
Why is Radiation Therapy Recommended by Specialists at Artemis Hospitals?
Our specialists at Artemis Hospitals recommend radiotherapy for its numerous benefits, including:
Effective Treatment for Cancer: Radiation therapy is a proven method for targeting and shrinking tumours, improving survival rates. It can be used as a primary treatment or in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.
Localised Treatment: This therapy allows for precise targeting of cancerous tissues while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues and reducing side effects compared to more systemic treatments.
Combination Therapy: Radiation therapy can be effectively combined with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, enhancing overall treatment outcomes.
Targeted Treatment for Specific Conditions: Radiation therapy is not limited to cancer; it can also treat benign conditions, such as hyperthyroidism and arteriovenous malformations.
Precise Dosage Control: Modern technology enables highly precise delivery of radiation doses, minimising exposure to healthy tissues. This precision ensures that patients receive the most effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Non-Invasive Option: Radiation therapy is generally non-invasive, making it a suitable option for patients who may not be candidates for surgery. It allows for treatment without the need for physical removal of tissue.
Outpatient Treatment: Many forms of radiotherapy, such as external beam radiation, can be administered on an outpatient basis. This allows patients to receive treatment without the need for hospitalisation.
Shorter Treatment Duration: Advancements in radiation techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy, can significantly reduce treatment duration. Some patients may require only a few sessions to achieve effective results.
Palliative Care: In advanced cancer cases, radiation therapy can alleviate symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and obstruction, significantly improving quality of life. Palliative radiotherapy provides relief for patients with serious conditions when curative treatment is not feasible.
Conditions Treated Using Radiation Therapy at Artemis Hospitals
The radiation oncologists at Artemis Hospitals use radiotherapy for several types of cancers, including but not limited to:
Breast Cancer: Cancer that develops in the breast tissue, often starting in the ducts or lobules.
Prostate Cancer: Cancer that develops in the prostate gland, which is responsible for producing seminal fluid.
Skin Cancer: Cancer that develops in the skin cells, with the most common types being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Brain Tumours: Cancer that originates in the brain cells, which may affect brain function depending on their location.
Lung Cancer: Cancer that begins in the lungs, often linked to smoking and environmental factors.
Head and Neck Cancers: Cancer that occurs in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas, which may include oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx cancers.
Colorectal Cancer: Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, often developing from polyps that can become malignant over time.
Bladder Cancer: Cancer that originates in the bladder lining, often presenting with symptoms like blood in urine.
Cervical Cancer: Cancer that occurs in the cervix, typically caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV).
Oesophageal Cancer: Cancer that forms in the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, which are often linked to smoking and acid reflux.
Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system; they involve abnormal growth of lymphocytes.
Non-Cancerous Conditions:
Radiation therapy is also used as a treatment for several benign conditions, including:
Hyperthyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like weight loss and rapid heartbeat.
Keloids: Overgrowths of scar tissue that form at the site of an injury, which may be thick, raised, and itchy or painful.
Graves’ ophthalmopathy: Inflammation and tissue buildup around the eyes, which can cause bulging, discomfort, and vision issues.
Heterotopic bone formation: Formation of bones in soft tissues outside the skeletal system after surgery or trauma, leading to stiffness and pain.
Meningioma: Benign tumours that arise from the meninges, the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord.
Trigeminal neuralgia (5th cranial nerve pain): A chronic pain condition, often described as a severe facial pain disorder, caused by nerve compression.
Acoustic schwannomas: Benign tumours that develop on the nerves leading from the inner ear to the brain, potentially affecting balance and hearing.
Gynaecomastia: An abnormal enlargement of male breast tissue, sometimes seen in patients undergoing hormone therapy, particularly those being treated for prostate cancer.
Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal tangles of blood vessels that can occur in the brain, potentially leading to bleeding or neurological issues.
Types of Radiation Therapy Available at Artemis Hospitals
At Artemis Hospitals, we understand that every patient’s journey is unique. Our radiation therapy services for cancer include a variety of treatment approaches, including:
Neoadjuvant radiotherapy: It shrinks cancer cells before they are removed through surgery or destroyed through chemotherapy.
Adjuvant radiotherapy: It kills any remaining cancer cells after surgery and prevents them from coming back.
Palliative radiotherapy: It provides relief from symptoms and stress of serious illness, improving the quality of life for patients and their families.
On the basis of delivery, there are two broad categories of radiation therapy at Artemis Hospitals:
External Beam Radiation Therapy
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is a non-invasive technique in which high-energy radiation beams are directed at tumours from outside the body through a machine called a linear accelerator. Here’s a list of EBRT treatments available at Artemis Hospitals:
Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT): In this EBRT, 3D imaging tools are used to study and map the contours of the tumour. These are used to shape the radiation beams for targeted delivery.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): It is an advanced type of 3D-CRT technique in which radiation oncologists can adjust the intensity of the radiation dose directed at the tumour and its nearby regions. It helps spare damage to healthy tissues.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): It utilises frequent imaging (mostly CT scan) of the tumour before each session to monitor its shape and movement and guide the precise delivery of radiation.
Volumetric Modulated Arc Based Radiation Therapy: It is an advanced form of radiotherapy in which high-energy beams of varying intensities are directed at the tumour in a continuous, rotational arc pattern. VMAT radiation therapy is much faster, more precise, and more effective than IMRT and IGRT techniques.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRS): It involves the use of concentrated radiation doses to tumours in a small area while minimising exposure to surrounding tissues, without any incisions like surgeries. Artemis Hospitals is the first hospital in North India to employ the cutting-edge M6 Cyberknife system for stereotactic radiation therapy, facilitating minimally invasive radiosurgery with precision.
Respiratory Gating: This sophisticated technique accounts for tumour movement during breathing, ensuring radiation delivery only when the tumour is in the treatment field. It is especially useful in lung and breast cancer cases.
Proton Radiation Therapy: Unlike X-ray radiation, this treatment allows the delivery of radiation that does not go beyond the tumour site, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues. It also allows for higher doses of radiation that target tumours near sensitive organs or in paediatric patients.
Electron Beam Therapy: It is a type of radiation therapy in which electrons, instead of protons or photons, are directed at shallow tumours. It helps spare deeper tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure, especially in skin cancers, keloids, and lymphomas.
Internal Radiation Therapy
Internal radiotherapy involves placing a radioactive source inside or close to the tumour using an applicator and delivering a concentrated dose directly to the target area. These are usually completed over a shorter period than EBRT and are particularly effective for early-stage cancers. Following are some of the types of internal radiation therapy available at Artemis Hospitals:
Brachytherapy: This localised treatment involves solid radioactive materials, seeds or wires. Artemis Hospitals offers the following types of brachytherapy:
High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy: Also, called temporary brachytherapy, in this technique concentrated doses of radioactive sources are placed in or near the tumour for a short time, usually minutes. The sources are delivered through catheters or applicators, which are left in place until the treatment ends. This outpatient treatment is often used for gynaecological cancers.
Low-Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy: In this technique, radioactive sources or seeds are implanted in or near a tumour for several days or weeks and then removed, providing for prolonged exposure to the cancerous tissue. LDR is commonly used in prostate cancer treatment.
Permanent Implant Brachytherapy: In this radiotherapy, the radioactive source is permanently left in the body. The radiation gradually weakens over time.
Pulse-Dose Rate (PDR) Brachytherapy: This fairly recent technique combines aspects of both LDR and HDR brachytherapy, delivering radiation in timed pulses rather than a continuous or single high dose. PDR allows for more flexibility in treatment planning and is used in various cancers, including breast and prostate cancers.
Intraoperative Radiation (IORT): In this radiotherapy, radiation is administered directly to the tumour site during surgery, allowing for precise targeting of the affected area. IORT is often used in localised breast cancer treatment.
Intracavitary Brachytherapy: In this method, radioactive sources are placed within a natural or surgical body cavity, such as the vagina or uterus. It is commonly used for gynaecological cancers, allowing targeted treatment while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Interstitial Brachytherapy: It involves directly placing radioactive sources into the tumour tissue using catheters or needles to provide high doses of localised radiation. This approach is beneficial for soft tissue sarcomas and other localised tumours.
Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT): It is a technique that involves injecting radioactive beads directly into the blood vessels that supply the tumour, commonly used for liver cancer.
Systemic Therapy: This approach uses liquid radioactive substances, often administered orally or through injection, that travel throughout the body to target cancer cells. This approach allows radiation to reach cancerous areas that may be spread across multiple sites.
Radiolabeled Monoclonal Antibodies: This is a type of systemic therapy combining radioactive isotopes with antibodies that specifically target cancer cells. It is used for certain lymphomas and other malignancies, offering a targeted approach to treatment.
Expert Care Available for Side Effects of Radiation Therapy at Artemis Hospitals
Radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment; however, it comes with side effects, especially in the areas of the body receiving radiation. Here are some common side effects of radiation therapy that our team at Artemis Hospitals can help you manage:
Many patients experience tiredness and low energy levels during radiation therapy, which may persist for weeks after treatment ends. The severity of fatigue varies depending on the radiation dose and the patient's overall health.
Radiation can cause skin reactions in the treated area, such as redness, dryness, itching, peeling, or blistering. These effects are similar to sunburn and may worsen as treatment progresses.
Hair loss can occur in the area being treated if radiation affects hair follicles. For example, radiation to the head may lead to scalp hair loss, while other body hair may be affected depending on the treatment site.
Radiation to the abdomen or gastrointestinal area can cause nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Anti-nausea medications may help manage these symptoms during treatment.
Radiation directed at the pelvic region, abdomen, or lower back may lead to gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhoea. The severity can vary, with some patients experiencing mild to more frequent bowel movements.
Mouth and Throat Problems
Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or throat can cause dryness, sores, difficulty swallowing, or changes in taste. These symptoms may impact nutrition and require special dietary adjustments.
Radiation to the pelvic area can cause issues such as frequent urination, painful urination, or a burning sensation. These symptoms may improve over time but can be challenging during treatment.
Swelling in certain body parts may occur if radiation affects lymph nodes or lymphatic vessels. This is more common when treating areas such as the breast, arm, or legs.
Sexual and Reproductive Issues
Radiation in the pelvic area can affect sexual function, fertility, and reproductive organs. Men might face erectile dysfunction, while women may face vaginal dryness, menopause symptoms, or fertility concerns.
Long-Term Effects and Risks of Radiation Therapy
Some side effects may appear months or even years after treatment in areas where radiation was administered. Risks include fibrosis (tissue hardening), lung problems, heart complications, or secondary cancers. Regular follow-ups can help monitor and manage these late effects.
What to Expect During Radiation Therapy Procedures at Artemis Hospitals?
Here’s a patient-focused guide on what to expect before and during radiation therapy at Artemis Hospitals:
Personalised Treatment Plan
At Artemis Hospitals, before radiation therapy begins, a personalised treatment plan is created by a team of radiation specialists. This plan is tailored to the patient’s specific condition, aiming to deliver precise doses while minimising side effects.
Immobilisation Device (for external radiation therapy)
Specialised devices such as headrests, moulds, or vac-lok bags are used to keep patients in the correct position during each session and minimise tissue damage. Custom devices are often used for specific areas like the head or neck, while universal options such as breast or belly boards may be employed for broader applications.
Simulation Sessions, including CT or MRI
A simulation session will be conducted to map out the treatment area using imaging scans like CT or MRI. This ensures precise targeting of cancer cells, protecting healthy tissue.
Comfortable Treatment Environment
Patients can expect a comfortable, patient-friendly environment with state-of-the-art technology.
External radiotherapy is similar to getting an X-ray. Our radiation therapists carefully position the patients, ensuring comfort during each session. The radiation machine moves around the patient, delivering treatment within minutes without touching them.
Internal radiation therapy involves either a minimally invasive procedure under anaesthesia or IV therapy. Our team prioritises patient comfort throughout the process.
Most radiation therapy, especially high-dose brachytherapy and external radiotherapy, is typically administered in daily sessions, Monday through Friday, over several weeks. Each session lasts 15-30 minutes, with the actual radiation exposure taking only a few minutes. For low-dose brachytherapy and systemic radiation, patients may receive inpatient and day care treatment.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments
Throughout the therapy, the medical team at Artemis Hospitals will closely monitor the patient’s progress and may adjust the treatment plan as needed. This helps to ensure the most effective outcomes with the fewest possible side effects.
Artemis Hospitals provides supportive care to help manage any side effects that may arise, such as fatigue or skin changes. Our radiation oncology team will offer tips and medications to ease symptoms and maintain the patient's well-being.
Access to a Multidisciplinary Team
During treatment, patients will have access to a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, nurses, dietitians, and counsellors. They will be available to support the patient’s medical, nutritional, and emotional needs.
Patients will have scheduled check-ins with their radiation oncologist at Artemis Hospitals to discuss how they are feeling and any concerns. These appointments ensure ongoing support and allow for timely management of any symptoms.
Emphasis on Patient Comfort and Safety
At Artemis Hospitals, patient comfort and safety are top priorities. We follow stringent protocols to ensure radiation therapy is delivered with the utmost precision and care.
This approach by radiation oncologists at Artemis Hospitals ensures that patients receive comprehensive, compassionate care throughout their radiation therapy journey.
What to Expect After Radiation Therapy?
Artemis Hospitals aims to provide comprehensive support to patients in the recovery phase to ensure a smooth transition back to daily life and long-term wellness. Here’s what to expect during recovery after radiation therapy:
Gradual Return to Normal Activities
After radiation therapy, patients can expect a gradual return to daily activities. While some may experience lingering fatigue, rest and light exercise can aid in regaining energy.
Scheduled follow-up appointments will be scheduled with your radiation oncologist to monitor the patient’s recovery and evaluate the treatment’s effectiveness. These visits help ensure any late side effects or concerns are addressed promptly.
Managing Ongoing Side Effects
Some side effects, such as skin changes or fatigue, may continue for a few weeks after treatment ends. The radiation oncology team at Artemis Hospitals will provide guidance on managing these symptoms and offer supportive care as needed.
Emphasis on Nutrition and Hydration
Proper nutrition and staying hydrated are essential for recovery. Our dietitians will recommend dietary adjustments to help replenish the patient’s strength, support healing, and manage any lingering side effects like nausea.
Emotional and Psychological Support
Radiation therapy can take an emotional toll, and Artemis Hospitals offers counselling services to help patients cope with stress, anxiety, or depression during recovery. Support groups and individual therapy options are available.
Monitoring Long-Term Health
Radiation specialists at Artemis Hospitals will continue to monitor the patient’s long-term health, checking for any signs of recurrence or late-developing side effects. Regular imaging and blood tests may be part of this process to ensure thorough follow-up.
Skin Care Recommendations
If the patient’s skin was affected during treatment, our medical team will provide recommendations for gentle skin care to promote healing, such as using mild cleansers and moisturisers and avoiding sun exposure to protect the treated area.
Gradual Improvement in Side Effects
Most side effects will begin to improve within a few weeks of finishing treatment, though some may take longer to resolve. Our team will provide reassurance and advice on managing any persistent symptoms.
Returning to Work or Normal Routines
Our radiation specialist will advise when it is safe to return to work or resume more demanding activities. A gradual approach is recommended to help patients adjust comfortably as their energy levels improve.
How to Prepare for Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy is usually delivered as fractional therapy in sessions of fifteen to twenty minutes every day over several weeks. The following are some tips to help patients and their family members prepare for radiation therapy:
Consult with a Radiation Specialist
Discuss the treatment plan in detail with your doctor at Artemis Hospitals, including the type of radiation, expected side effects, and duration of therapy. Understanding what to expect can help reduce anxiety and prepare for any necessary lifestyle adjustments.
Since radiation therapy may cause fatigue, arrange transportation to and from treatment sessions. Having a reliable travel plan can reduce stress and ensure patients get to appointments safely.
Patients should maintain a balanced diet to keep their energy levels up during treatment. Our radiation doctors and dieticians may recommend specific dietary adjustments based on the area being treated to help manage side effects like nausea or diarrhoea.
Patients should follow any skincare instructions provided by our radiation therapy team, such as avoiding lotions or creams on the treatment area. Gentle skincare routines can help minimise skin reactions during therapy.
Adequate sleep is important for patients to help their bodies cope with the treatment's effects. Rest can aid in managing fatigue, a common side effect of radiation therapy.
Arrange for Time Off Work
If needed, patients should discuss taking time off or adjusting work schedules with their employer. Planning for flexibility can help accommodate treatment sessions and manage any side effects.
Patients should seek emotional support from family, friends, or support groups. Counselling or talking with others who have undergone radiation therapy can help cope with the stress and emotional impact of treatment.
Prepare a List of Questions
Patients can write down any questions or concerns to discuss with their doctor. Having a list ensures patients get the information they need and feel more in control of their treatment.
Plan for Childcare or Household Help
If patients have children or other responsibilities, it is advised that they arrange for additional help around the house during the treatment period. This can help them focus on their health and recovery.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Radiation Therapy?
One of the most crucial decisions for patients and their families seeking treatment is the choice of hospital. It influences the type of treatment they receive and their overall experience. Here are some of the many reasons why patients choose Artemis Hospitals for radiation therapy in India:
Experienced Team of Radiation Oncologists
Artemis Hospitals boasts a highly skilled team of radiation oncologists and therapists with extensive experience in treating various types of medical conditions.
Tailored Treatment Plans for Optimal Outcomes
Our approach to radiation therapy is personalised with treatment plans tailored to the individual’s specific condition, cancer stage, and overall health.
Multidisciplinary Tumour Board
Our multidisciplinary tumour board brings together specialists from different fields, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiology, and pathology, to discuss complex cancer cases. This collaborative approach ensures an effective treatment strategy, enhancing patient outcomes.
State-of-the-Art Technology and Equipment
Artemis Hospitals is equipped with advanced radiation therapy technology, such as linear accelerators, an M6 Cyberknife system, and a Radiology Information System, which is an advanced treatment planning software and repository.
Our radiation therapy services are supported by modern radiology and nuclear medicine technologies, including PET-CT scans, gamma scintigraphy, and SPECT/CT systems with xSPECT technology.
Patient safety is a top priority at Artemis Hospitals. Our radiation therapy protocols are designed to deliver the precise dosage required to treat the tumour while minimising the risk to surrounding healthy tissues. Advanced monitoring and quality assurance measures ensure every treatment is administered with the highest accuracy.
Patient-Centric Care and Support
At Artemis Hospitals, our team is dedicated to supporting patients and their families, offering resources such as counselling, nutritional advice, and pain management. From diagnosis through recovery, we aim to make the experience as smooth and supportive as possible.
These factors make Artemis Hospitals a top choice for patients seeking radiation therapy, combining clinical excellence with a holistic approach to cancer care.
Schedule a Consultation for Radiation Therapy at Artemis Hospitals Today
Artemis Hospitals is ranked among the leading hospitals for radiation treatment in Delhi-NCR. To book a consultation with a radiation oncologist at our hospital, call us at +91-124-451-1111, WhatsApp at +91-95992-85476, or register on our Online Patient Portal. You can also download and register on our Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is radiation therapy painful?
Radiation therapy itself is a painless procedure. However, some side effects, like skin irritation or fatigue, may cause discomfort as treatment progresses.
What is the most effective radiotherapy technique?
The best type of radiotherapy depends on the individual’s specific condition, the location and type of tumour, and overall health. A radiation oncologist will assess all these factors to recommend the most effective and safe treatment for each patient.
How do doctors ensure radiation only targets the tumour?
Radiation oncologists use advanced imaging and planning techniques, like CT or MRI scans and immobilisation devices, to ensure radiation is precisely directed at the tumour, sparing healthy tissues as much as possible.
Which type of medical professionals are involved in radiation therapy?
Here are the key medical professionals involved in radiation therapy:
Radiation oncologists are medical doctors who specialise in treating cancer and other diseases with radiation therapy.
Radiation therapists are healthcare professionals who administer radiation therapy under the supervision of a radiation oncologist.
Radiologists are medical doctors who interpret medical images to diagnose diseases.
Radiologic technologists are healthcare professionals who operate imaging equipment to produce images used for diagnosis.
Is interventional radiology the same as radiation therapy?
No, interventional radiology and radiation therapy are different. Interventional radiology uses imaging to guide minimally invasive procedures, while radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to treat cancer and other diseases.
How long does each radiation therapy session take?
The duration of radiation therapy sessions depends on the type of treatment. Typically, each session lasts about 10-30 minutes, though the actual radiation delivery time is usually only a few minutes.
Will I be radioactive after my treatment?
No, external radiation therapy does not make you radioactive. Internal radiation may involve precautions, but your care team will guide you on any necessary safety measures.
Can I continue my normal activities during radiation therapy?
Many people can continue regular activities, but it depends on how you feel. Fatigue is common, so balancing rest and activity is important.
What will happen after radiation therapy?
After radiation therapy, most patients gradually return to normal activities, though some side effects, such as fatigue or mild skin irritation, may persist temporarily. Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Does radiation therapy increase my risk of developing cancer in the future?
Radiation therapy can slightly increase the risk of developing secondary cancer in the treated area years after treatment. However, the benefits of treating the current cancer generally far outweigh this risk.
