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Gamma Knife Radiosurgery pageBrain Radiotherapy
Brain radiotherapy is a treatment that uses strong x-rays to target the tumour. It helps kill cancer cells and stop them from growing. The aim is to destroy cancer cells while keeping the healthy parts of the brain safe.
Here’s what a patient can expect during the process:
Meeting your Doctor
Before treatment starts, you’ll have a chat with your doctor. They will explain the treatment, possible side effects, and ask you to sign a consent form. This meeting can be in person or over the phone. Part of your treatment pathway may include taking a chemotherapy drug called Temozolomide. Please see the link below for more information.
Mould room appointment
You will need to wear a mask for your treatment, so your first appointment will be with the Mould Room team. They will make a special mask to keep your head still during radiotherapy. This helps make sure the treatment is accurate. If you have any worries about the mask, please talk to your doctor.
Planning scan
A few weeks before your treatment starts, you will have both CT and MRI planning scans. During these sessions you will be laid down in the treatment position with the mask on. These scans help the consultant and Planning team to outline the area that needs to be treated.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy for brain cancer is usually given 5 days a week (Monday to Friday). The number of treatments will depend on the doctor’s recommendation. The therapeutic radiographers will accurately position you on the treatment couch. This will be the same position which you laid down in for your planning CT scan.
The linear accelerator will rotate around you and deliver treatment from different angles. You won’t feel the radiation, but you might hear some noises as the machine operates. Each session takes around 15 to 20 minutes. However, the actual radiation only takes a few minutes. You’ll need to stay still during the treatment, but you won’t feel pain or discomfort during the process.
Side Effects
Even though radiation targets the tumour, it can also affect healthy tissue nearby. Side effects usually start after a few treatments and can be different depending on the area being treated.
Common side effects of brain radiotherapy include:
- Tiredness (Fatigue): Tiredness is one of the most common side effects, and it tends to build up over time during treatment.
- Skin irritation: The skin on your scalp may get red or irritated. See the link below advising you on how to look after your skin during and after radiotherapy treatment.
- Hair loss: Hair loss may occur in the treatment area. It may be temporary or permanent, depending on the amount of radiation dose given.
- Headaches or nausea: Sometimes, you may feel a bit of discomfort after the treatment.
Please Note
Most side effects improve 10-14 days after treatment ends. Your healthcare team will be there to manage any side effects and provide support during and after your treatment. Please inform your radiotherapist if you are experiencing any side effects.
Please inform your radiotherapist if you are experiencing any side effects.