Oesophagus Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses targeted radiation beams to kill cancer cells in the oesophagus. The radiation harms the cancer cells’ DNA, stopping them from growing or multiplying. Over time, this helps shrink or destroy the tumour. The treatment aims to target the cancer while keeping healthy nearby tissue 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.
Mould room appointment (if required)
If you need a mask for your treatment, your first appointment might be with the mould room team. They will make a special mask to keep your head and shoulders 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
If you need a mask for your treatment, your first appointment might be with the mould room team. They will make a special mask to keep your head and shoulders still during radiotherapy. This helps make sure the treatment is accurate. If you have any worries about the mask, please talk to your doctor.
Small tattoos may be placed on the skin around the area that will receive radiation. These markings help ensure that radiation is delivered to the same spot each time.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy for oesophagus 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 oesophagus radiotherapy include:
- Tiredness (Fatigue): Tiredness is one of the most common side effects, and it tends to build up over time during treatment.
- Skin Changes: The skin in the treated area may become red, dry, or irritated, like sunburn. You might also experience itching or peeling. See the link below advising you on how to look after your skin during and after radiotherapy treatment.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): The radiation can sometimes cause inflammation in the oesophagus, making swallowing harder or more painful. You might need to adjust your diet to softer foods. It is important to tell your radiotherapist if you are struggling to eat or drink.
- Sore Throat: Radiation can cause a sore throat, mouth dryness, or irritation if treatment is around that area.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Some people feel nauseous, especially if the tumour is near the stomach or if the treatment affects the digestive system.
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.