Treatment
Radiation therapy can vary in length from one day to several weeks. Over the course of treatment, the radiation oncology team will provide care and support to help you through your treatment.
Linear Accelerator (Linac or LA)
RCTS Radiation Oncology operates four linear accelerators (treatment machines). A linear accelerator produces high-energy x-rays and electron beams capable of treating a variety of cancers. X-rays or photons, are commonly used to treat tumours below the skin’s surface, while electrons can be used to treat areas closer to the skin. For some cancers on the surface of the skin, a superficial x-ray machine is used.
Radiation Therapy Treatment Video Clip
Superficial Radiation Therapy
Superficial radiation therapy is for the treatment of cancers that are on or close to the skin’s surface. Treatment is given on the superficial x-ray (SXR) machine. This machine uses x-rays of a lower energy than the linear accelerator machines, which means the treatment does not go as deep into the body.
If you are having superficial treatment, your radiation oncologist will mark the area that is to be treated on the skin.
A radiation therapist will deliver the treatment, often over a number of days. The SXR machine sits against the skin and delivers x-rays for around 15 seconds to two minutes. Treatment may cause skin in the treated area to become red and sore. A scab may also form or the area may begin to weep. Please tell the radiation therapist if you experience any of these side effects. The skin reaction may continue for some time after your treatment has finished, but should begin to heal after that.
It is very important that you are gentle with the skin in the treatment area, both during and immediately after your treatment. An information sheet will be given to you at your first treatment about caring for your skin while receiving superficial radiation therapy.
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Last Updated 08/06/2010