Radiation Treatment

Radiation treatment is the use of high-energy x-rays to target specific cancer sites and eliminate cancer cells. The treatment a patient receives will depend on the type of cancer as well as the location and size of the tumor(s). The physician will review all available treatment options and determine the best treatment plan for each individual patient. Focused radiation is used either alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery.

Why is radiation treatment used?

Radiation treatment may be used to eliminate cancer, relieve symptoms associated with cancer, and/or prevent the cancer from returning. Much of the newer, more advanced technology allows the radiation oncologists to better target the tumor while avoiding damage to the normal, healthy cells.

How is radiation treatment usually delivered?

Radiation can be delivered either from outside the body with a machine called a linear accelerator (external beam radiation) or from a radiation source implanted permanently or temporarily in the body (brachytherapy).