THE LUNG PROJECT
RADIATION
Radiation therapy is a key part of treating lung cancer. It involves using high- powered energy beams to target and kill cancer cells. It also may be used to alleviate symptoms resulting from advanced-stage cancer.
The most common form of radiation therapy is known as external beam radiation. This involves using a machine that directs energy beams at the part of your body affected by cancer.
This is done using an accelerator that generates X ray beams or electrons and uses a computer guided system and body imaging to direct the energy to the area of disease causing cancer death. Radiation therapy causes side effects such as fatigue and a temporary rash at the treatment site. Advances in radiation therapy using state of the art technology and more precise delivery of the radiation has decreased side effects and damage to non-cancerous tissue. Proton beam radiation is a newer modality that uses protons as the energy source instead of electrons, which can decrease damage to sensitive tissues resulting in more effective cancer treatment and less side effects. Radiation is often given in combination with chemotherapy which improves the cancer killing effect.
SBRT
For patients with early stage lung cancer, surgery is generally the most effective treatment. However, in patients who are not candidates for surgery, a radiation modality called SBRT (stereotactic body radiation therapy) uses a technique of very focused or high dose radiation to a specific area of disease causing tumor death. The results in early stage or small tumors is excellent with 90% of patients controlling their disease or undergoing remission over 2 years. The probability of disease relapse is a little higher than surgery and the survival is somewhat lower than achieved with surgery, but this can have excellent results in selected patients who are not fit for surgery.
IMRT
Image Guided Radiation Therapy is a modern form of radiation which uses photons for energy but the treatment is guided and controlled with computer and planned using modern imaging technique such as CT scans. It is highly effective, particularly when combined with chemotherapy.
PROTON BEAM
Proton beam radiation uses protons instead of photons as an energy source to kill cancer. Photons can be controlled more accurately since the energy dissipates after hitting the target which gives the radiation oncologist the ability to control the depth of injury. It is similar to having "breaks" available to stop the radiation treatment after the beam hits the target, which can minimize collateral damage. This can be particularly important when treating children, certain body parts near critical structures, large tumors and for patients receiving repeat treatments where the toxicity is greater.
Disclosure- The information presented here is a general guideline and opinion. The purpose is for education only. It is NOT a medical consultation and the information may not apply to your individual situation. The information here is not intended to replace medical professional advice or guide individual patient care. Please consult with a medical professional for an evaluation of your own individual case.