Radiation Therapy -Detailed
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Like surgery, radiation therapy is local therapy. It can affect cancer cells only in the treated area. In early stage prostate cancer, radiation can be used instead of surgery, or it may be used after surgery to destroy any cancer cells that may remain in the area. In advanced stages, it may be given to relieve pain or other problems.
Radiation may be directed at the body by a machine, called external radiation, or it may come from tiny radioactive seeds placed inside or near the tumor, called internal or implant radiation and brachytherapy. Men who receive radioactive seeds alone usually have small tumors. Some men receive both kinds of radiation therapy. For external radiation therapy, patients go to the hospital or clinic, usually five days a week for several weeks. Patients may stay in the hospital for a short time for implant radiation.
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