Dr. Mallik Singaraju: Consultant Radiation Oncologist at Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Radiation oncology is a medical specialty that uses ionizing radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy. Conditions treated include various types of cancer such as breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and brain tumors, among others.
There are several types of radiation therapy, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy), and systemic radiation therapy. EBRT delivers radiation from outside the body using machines, while brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor. Systemic radiation therapy involves the administration of radioactive substances, usually through injection or ingestion, which travel throughout the body to target cancer cells.
During radiation treatment, patients typically lie on a treatment table while a machine delivers targeted radiation to the affected area. The treatment itself is painless and usually lasts only a few minutes. However, patients may experience side effects such as fatigue, skin changes, nausea, and temporary hair loss, depending on the area being treated and the individual's overall health.
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy where a radiation source is placed inside or near the area requiring treatment.
Conventional radiation therapy uses two-dimensional imaging to plan and deliver radiation to the tumor.
IMRT is a type of radiation therapy that delivers precise doses of radiation to the tumor by modulating the intensity of the radiation beams.
SRS is effective for treating small to medium-sized brain tumors and is often used as an alternative to surgery for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery.