The first step in Radiation treatment is a process known as Simulation.  During this time your doctor will determine the optimum plan of treatment, which includes determining how best to protect a patient's normal tissue.  Using a device called a Simulator, X-ray images are made of the area to be treated.  Marks are drawn on the skin to indicate the exact area to radiate.  Using CT scans, a 3-dimensional image of the patient's anatomy is produced, and computers calculate exactly how radiation will be distributed in and around the tumor area.  When finished, the doctor will have a detailed picture of how the radiation will interact with the cancer and a precise record of the radiation dose to the tumor.

While this simulation process may take several hours to complete, subsequent visits for the actual treatments usually last only thirty minutes.  Treatments are spread over a period of time.  During treatments, normal tissue is shielded as much as possible while radiation is aimed at the site.  To ensure maximum precision, radiation measurements, X-rays, and computers are used to record and verify treatment progress.  Patients can expect to see a physician at least once a week after treatment begins.

Simple Facts and Helpful Hints about Radiation treatment:

• Radiation treatments are painless.
• External radiation treatment does not make a patient radioactive.
• Patients should allow 30 minutes for each radiation appointment, although the treatment itself should only last a few minutes.
• Skin in and around the area may become sensitive and easily irritated.
• Side effects of radiation treatment are usually temporary and vary depending on the area of the body that is treated.
• It is important to get plenty of rest and eat a well-balanced diet during the course of radiation therapy.