External Beam Radiotherapy

Radiating Hope, Illuminating Health: External Beam Excellence Revealed

At Universal Hospital, we employ advanced technology to deliver targeted radiation therapy to treat various types of cancers. Our dedicated team of radiation oncologists and medical physicists is committed to providing personalized and effective external beam radiotherapy for patients seeking state-of-the-art cancer treatment.

What is External Beam Radiotherapy?

External beam radiotherapy is a non-invasive and highly precise cancer treatment that delivers radiation from outside the body to the targeted tumor or cancerous area. This approach allows for the focused delivery of radiation to the affected region while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.

How External Beam Radiotherapy Works

External beam radiotherapy involves the use of a machine called a linear accelerator to deliver focused beams of radiation to the targeted area. The radiation damages the DNA within cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. The process typically consists of the following steps:

Simulation and Treatment Planning:

Before treatment begins, a simulation is performed to precisely identify the treatment area. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, help create a treatment plan that ensures accurate delivery of radiation to the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.

Positioning and Immobilization:

Patients are positioned carefully to ensure accurate targeting of the radiation beams. Immobilization devices, such as masks or molds, may be used to keep the patient in the correct position during treatment.

Treatment Delivery:

During each treatment session, the linear accelerator is adjusted to direct the radiation beams precisely at the tumor. Treatment is typically delivered in multiple sessions (fractions) over several weeks to maximize the effect on cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal tissues.

Types of External Beam Radiotherapy

Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT):

IMRT allows for precise control over the intensity and shape of radiation beams, enabling the delivery of higher doses to the tumor while reducing exposure to nearby healthy tissues.

Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT):

IGRT involves the use of imaging techniques, such as CT scans or X-rays, during treatment to ensure accurate targeting of the tumor.

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS):

These techniques deliver very high doses of radiation in a few sessions, often used for small tumors in the body or the brain.

Indications for External Beam Radiotherapy

External beam radiotherapy is employed in various scenarios, including:

Curative Intent: As the primary treatment for certain cancers, aiming to eradicate or shrink tumors.
Adjuvant Therapy: After surgery target any remaining cancer cells.
Palliative Care: To alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.

Considerations and Potential Side Effects

While EBRT is generally well-tolerated, it may have specific side effects, including:

Fatigue: Patients may experience fatigue during and after treatment.
Skin Changes: Redness or irritation may occur in the treated area.
Temporary Swelling: In some cases, there may be temporary swelling or inflammation.

Your healthcare team will discuss potential side effects, monitor your response to EBRT, and provide support to manage any challenges.

External Beam Radiotherapy at Universal Hospital:

Expert Radiation Oncology Team:

Universal Hospital is proud to have a team of experienced radiation oncologists and specialists in external beam radiotherapy. Our experts are dedicated to providing individualized and effective treatment plans.

Cutting-Edge Radiotherapy Facilities:

Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced linear accelerators and imaging technology. This ensures precise and targeted delivery of radiation during external beam radiotherapy procedures.

Personalized Treatment Plans:

Universal Hospital follows a patient-centered approach, creating customized external beam radiotherapy plans based on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, tumor location, and the patient’s overall health.