Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncology focuses on treating cancer with high-energy radiation. Radiation therapy, works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells so they can’t grow or divide. Over time, the damaged cells die, and the body removes them. Radiation therapy is often used along with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.
Radiation oncology is an important part of cancer care. Radiation oncologists plan and deliver treatments, making sure the radiation targets the tumor while protecting healthy tissue as much as possible.
How radiation therapy is used
Radiation therapy can be used in different ways depending on the patient’s needs:
- To cure cancer: Destroy cancer cells completely
- Before surgery: Shrink tumors to make them easier to remove
- After surgery: Kill any remaining cancer cells
- Palliative care: Reduce pain or symptoms caused by cancer
- To prevent spread: Stop cancer from spreading to other parts of the body
Cancer types treated with radiation oncology
Radiation therapy is used to treat many different types of cancer, including:
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Skin cancer
- Cervical and other gynecologic cancers
- Lymphoma (cancers of the lymph system)
- Pediatric (childhood) cancers
Types of radiation therapy
There are several ways radiation can be delivered:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): The most common type of treatment, where radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body
- Brachytherapy: Radioactive material is placed inside or very close to the tumor
- Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT): Uses advanced imaging to help deliver radiation more precisely; enables doctors see the tumor during treatment, so they can target it accurately while protecting healthy tissue
- TrueBeam Radiotherapy System: Uses high-energy radiation, advanced imaging and real-time tracking, which allows doctors to target smaller areas more precisely, protecting healthy tissue and organs
- Stereotactic radiation therapy: Very precise, high-dose treatment given in fewer sessions
- CyberKnife® Radiosurgery: A robotic system that delivers highly targeted radiation to tumors anywhere in the body
Possible side effects
Radiation therapy is carefully planned and delivered; however it may cause side effects. These depend on the area treated and the dosage size. Most side effects are temporary and improve after treatment ends. Common side effects include:
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Skin irritation or redness
- Hair loss in the treated area
- Changes in appetite
- Swelling or discomfort in the treatment area
Radiation oncology close to home
Radiation oncology plays a key role in treating cancer. It helps cure disease, control symptoms and improve quality of life for many patients. Advances in technology continue to make treatments more precise and effective, and MercyOne offers the latest technologies and treatment options.
MercyOne’s expert care team will determine the best treatment plan for your cancer type and stage. With radiation oncology experts located in many locations, you and your loved ones can remain close to home during treatment.
