How Does Adaptive Radiation Work to Treat Cancer?

What to Expect During Radiation Therapy

Radiotherapy treatments typically involve several steps. First, you will have imaging scans to determine the cancer’s exact location. This will help your radiation oncologist create a customized treatment plan, which may include internal or external radiotherapy. Your treatment plan will also determine the exact amount and duration of radiation required.

During an external radiotherapy treatment, you will lie on a table while a machine delivers high-energy radiation to the targeted area. The machine may move around you to ensure that the radiation is delivered from different angles. We may instruct you to hold your breath or remain still during the treatment to ensure the accuracy of the radiation delivery. If you receive internal radiotherapy, this may be given orally, through an IV, or through a small implant. 

Adaptive Radiotherapy Side Effects

While radiation treatments themselves are painless, some patients experience side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, or nausea. These side effects are typically temporary and can be managed with medication or other supportive care.

One of the benefits of adaptive radiation is that it allows for more precise treatments that reduce the likelihood and severity of side effects. No matter your personalized radiation therapy treatment, our oncologists will monitor your progress and make changes as needed to give you the safest and most effective treatment possible.