Know about Radiotherapy

What is Radiotherapy?

Radiotherapy, recognized as radiation therapy, is a vital medical intervention using high doses of radiation to eliminate or impair cancer cells. This method is integral in cancer treatment, serving to eradicate cancer cells, reduce tumor size pre-surgery, eliminate residual cells post-surgery, or provide palliative relief in advanced cases. Whether employed independently or combined with other modalities like surgery or chemotherapy, radiotherapy stands as a prevalent approach in the comprehensive treatment of cancer.

Why is Radiotherapy Used?

Radiotherapy is employed with the aim of treating cancer and preventing its recurrence. It is a localized treatment, meaning it targets specific areas of the body where cancer is present. This precision allows for the destruction of cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Radiotherapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

How Does Radiotherapy Work?

The fundamental principle of radiotherapy is to damage the DNA within cancer cells, hindering their ability to divide and grow. This is achieved by exposing the targeted area to ionizing radiation, which generates free radicals and breaks the DNA strands. Normal cells are also affected by radiation, but they have a greater ability to repair themselves compared to cancer cells.

Radiotherapy can be delivered externally or internally. External beam radiation involves directing the radiation from outside the body using a machine, while internal radiation, or brachytherapy, involves placing a radioactive source directly inside or very close to the tumor.

Treatment Solutions in Radiotherapy

1. External Beam Radiation: This is the most common form of radiotherapy. It involves aiming a beam of radiation from outside the body onto the tumor. Modern technologies such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) allow for precise targeting, reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
2. Brachytherapy: In this approach, a radioactive source is placed inside or very close to the tumor. This method is often used for certain cancers, such as prostate or cervical cancer. Brachytherapy delivers a high dose of radiation to the tumor while sparing nearby normal tissues.
3. Systemic Radioisotope Therapy: This involves the administration of a radioactive substance that circulates throughout the body, targeting cancer cells. This approach is particularly used for certain types of thyroid cancer and neuroendocrine tumors.
4. Adjuvant Radiotherapy: Administered after surgery, adjuvant radiotherapy aims to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It is commonly used in breast cancer and other malignancies.
   

Benefit Points of Radiotherapy

1. Tumor Reduction or Elimination: The primary benefit of radiotherapy is its ability to reduce the size of tumors or eliminate cancer cells altogether. This is crucial in achieving a cure or controlling the progression of the disease.
2. Preservation of Organ Function: Radiotherapy can be used to preserve organ function by targeting cancerous growths while sparing healthy tissues. This is particularly important in cancers affecting vital organs.
3. Palliative Relief: In advanced cases where a cure may not be possible, radiotherapy serves as a palliative measure to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life. It can shrink tumors, relieve pain, and address other cancer-related complications.
4. Combined Treatment Approaches: Radiotherapy can be integrated into a multimodal treatment plan, working synergistically with surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. This comprehensive approach enhances the effectiveness of cancer treatment.
5. Minimization of Invasive Procedures: In some cases, radiotherapy can offer a non-invasive alternative to surgery, especially when tumors are located in challenging or sensitive areas.