Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink benign tumors or growths. This Higher energy radiation results in a higher dose compared to an x-ray or a CT scan. Therefore, MRTs ensure that the radiation is precisely targeted and the dose to the patient is carefully monitored. Radiation therapy is used as a method to treat cancer, but also used in palliative care to reduce pain or other troublesome symptoms. It can also be used to treat benign tumors and other noncancerous growths.

Radiation therapy works by applying a high energy radiation beam to the cancer cells over a period of time. This radiation damages the DNA of the cancer cells and causes them to die. When the damaged cells die, they are broken down and eliminated by the body’s natural processes.

There are a few ways to deliver radiation therapy. Radiation Therapists most often use a machine in radiation treatment called a linear accelerator, or LINAC. These machines use external focused beams of high energy radiation that targets and kills the cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Alternatively, treatment may involve placing radioactive sources directly into the patient’s body, near or in the cancerous tumor. This is called brachytherapy.

During the radiation therapy treatment, your Radiation Therapist will help you into precise position on the table for your treatment. You might be positioned with molds to hold you in place. The LINAC will make a buzzing noise and will move around during your treatment session. The length of the treatment depends on the kind of treatment you are having. Your Radiation Therapist will explain that to you with each treatment. Even though nothing will touch you during your treatment, it is very important that you remain still. You may be asked to hold your breath for portions of the treatment. Treatment rooms are equipped with audio and video systems so your Radiation Therapist can always see and hear you. The MRT can be in the treatment room in a matter of seconds of you need them.

Radiation therapy is an extremely safe form of cancer treatment. The side effects to radiation therapy depend on what part of your body is receiving treatment and how much radiation is used.  Most patients will experience some level of fatigue, and many will also have some level of skin irritation. Other side effects will be very specific to the area you are having treated. For example, if you are receiving radiation treatment to your pelvis, you may experience some bowel and/or bladder upset or discomfort. If you are receiving radiation treatment to your chest, you may experience a cough, some shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing. Ask your MRT about potential side effects. They are there to support you and will monitor these side effects to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to manage them. Most side effects are temporary, can be controlled and generally disappear over time once treatment has ended.