External beam radiation therapy
During external beam radiation therapy, a beam
of radiation is directed through the skin to a
tumor and the immediate surrounding area to destroy
the tumor and any nearby cancer cells. Treatments
are typically given every day for a number of
weeks to minimize side effects.
External beam radiation is similar to an X-ray
and is painless. A linear
accelerator delivers the treatment by producing
a beam of high-energy X-rays or electrons. The
radiation oncology team
plans the size and shape of the beam, and how
it is directed at the body, using sophisticated
treatment planning software, to effectively treat
the tumor while sparing the normal tissue.
Click
here for more detailed information about external
beam radiation therapy.
For more information about Saint Joseph’s
Center
for Cancer Care and Research, call 404-851-7117.
