What to Expect During Radiation Treatment
What happens during TrueBeam Treatment
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Tumor Visualization
During this process, 3-D images are generated of your tumor, which enables your doctor to know its size and shape. With this information, your doctor can best determine the dose of radiation you’ll need and how to deliver it most effectively.
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Treatment Planning
After the size, shape and volume of the tumor are determined, your treatment team uses sophisticated software to create a three-dimensional image of the area of your tumor. They will then develop a detailed treatment plan that specifies the amount of radiation the tumor should receive, from what angles, and a schedule for treatment.
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Treatment Delivery
A radiation therapist will guide you into the treatment room and help position you on the treatment table. Just prior to treatment, images will be taken so that the therapist can verify the tumor’s exact location. The therapist then leaves the room, and your treatment begins. The machine that creates the beam will rotate around you. Closed-circuit television and two-way audio enable the therapist to stay in constant contact with the patient. The process will most likely take only a few minutes, but sometimes the first treatment takes a little longer because some additional setup is required.
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Follow-up Care
After your treatment, you’ll see your doctor for follow-up care. During this time, he or she will monitor your progress. This is an opportunity to ask your doctor any questions, raise concerns about any side effects or inquire about your treatments and the status of your health.