Radiation oncology can be defined as a medical branch related to the application of radiotherapy (radiation therapy) methods used in cancer treatment. Radiation oncology uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. This radiation works by targeting cancer cells and is carefully planned and applied to minimize the risk of damaging normal cells. Radiation oncology therapy can be used in combination with other treatment options, such as surgery and chemotherapy, or used alone in the treatment of cancer.

What are the types of radiotherapy?

Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Types of radiotherapy include:

External beam therapy (EBRT): This type of radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells by focusing high-energy beams from the outside on the body with the help of a machine.

Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy): This type of radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells by directing radioactive sources placed inside the body to cancer cells with the help of a device.

Systemic radiotherapy: This type of radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells by administering radioactive substances into the body through a vein. Systemic radiotherapy is used in the treatment of metastatic cancers.

What are the types of external radiotherapy?

Types of external radiotherapy include:

3D-CRT (Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy): This method uses imaging techniques such as CT or MRI to better define the location of the tumor. A special computer program is then used to ensure that the radiation is applied to the tumor at the right angle.

IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy): This method is a technique that adjusts the radiation dose more precisely to ensure less damage to the normal tissues around the tumor.

VMAT (Fast Arc Therapy): In this method, the radiation source is quickly moved to the tumor from different angles, so better results can be achieved using less radiation.

Proton Therapy: In this method, radiation is given to the tumor using high-energy protons. Protons kill tumor cells while causing less damage to normal tissues.

SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy): This method is a technique in which high-dose radiation is applied directly to the tumor. This method is often used in the treatment of small tumors.

What types of cancer can radiotherapy be used to treat?

Radiotherapy can be used in the treatment of various types of cancer. These may include:

  • Head and neck cancers
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Bladder cancer
  • Rectal cancer
  • Skin cancers
  • Brain and spinal cord tumors
  • Lymphoma

Radiotherapy can be applied to any area where cancerous cells are found. However, the application is determined depending on the patient’s condition, the type, stage and spread of the cancer.

What are the side effects of radiotherapy?

Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. However, radiation can also affect normal cells and cause some side effects. The side effects of radiotherapy may vary depending on the dose of the treatment, the area where it is applied, and the general health status of the patient. Some common side effects are:

  • Tiredness
  • Skin rash, blisters, itching or dryness
  • Nausea and vomiting