Radiation Oncology

Radiation Oncology refers to the use of radiation in the treatment of cancer, and is one of the most common treatments for cancer. It is effective in almost every part of the body. Other names for it include radiotherapy, x-ray therapy, cobalt therapy, and irradiation. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation from x-rays, neutrons, and other sources to destroy the ability of cancer cells to divide and multiply. Unlike chemotherapy, which exposes the entire body to cancer-fighting chemicals, radiation therapy affects only the targeted tumor and surrounding area.

Radiation therapy is delivered one of two ways; externally or internally. With external radiation therapy, the treatment is delivered from outside the body through a “beam” of radiation that is focused on the cancerous tissue within your body. The radiation is delivered one of two ways; via a linear accelerator or Tomotherapy machine, depending on the type and stage of your cancer.

With internal radiation therapy, otherwise known as brachytherapy, the treatment is delivered internally with radioactive “seeds” that are placed within or near the cancerous tissue.