Brain cancer treatment with radiotherapy

Radiation is frequently prescribed to treat small brain neoplasms or stop tumor growth in inoperable cases. Sometimes it is indicated as an additional measure after neurosurgery to reduce the risk of relapse. The treatment essence is the effect on tumor cells with the help of radioactive beams. They are much more sensitive to the rays than ordinary ones. The dose is selected individually at the planning stage. Then, in a computer simulation of irradiation, radiography, CT, or MRI results are used to locate the tumor, choosing the type and direction of the beam of rays. Finally, the unique marks are applied to the skin to indicate the area exposed to radiation. During each radiotherapy session, the patient lies motionless on the treatment table. At the same time, the radiologist conducts treatment according to the parameters prescribed by the oncologist. A fixing mask holds the patient's head in a particular position. In addition, during the procedure, a regular scan (CT or MRI) is performed to track the status of the tumor and adjust the radiation dose if necessary. Treatment planning and the first radiotherapy session take 1 or 2 hours. Most of this time will be spent placing the patient in the correct position. After that, each session lasts only a few minutes and is painless. The duration of the course and the dose of radiation is determined by doctors individually for each patient.