Description
This comprehensive oncology presentation on radiotherapy provides a detailed overview of its principles, applications, and clinical management in cancer treatment. The material explains the use of ionizing radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays, to target malignant cells, with dose delivery measured in Grays and typically fractionated to optimize tumor control while sparing normal tissues. Key aims include tumor eradication, symptom control, quality of life improvement, and survival prolongation. The presentation distinguishes between external beam radiation and internal brachytherapy, and classifies radiotherapy as adjuvant, curative, neoadjuvant, or palliative based on clinical context. Indications cover various malignancies including cervical, head and neck, and hematologic cancers, while contraindications and both acute and late side effects are outlined. The treatment planning process, from initial consultation and CT simulation to volume definition and follow-up, is systematically described. This resource is essential for medical students, oncology trainees, and practitioners in Zambia, offering structured, exam-focused content for understanding radiotherapy within a tertiary medical education framework. Download these detailed notes for thorough preparation on radiation oncology principles and practice.
What's inside
RADIOTHERAPY PRESENTER: KAIMBO COMFORT MODERATOR:DR MWANZA CONTENT Introduction Mechanism of action Aims of radiotherapy Types Classification Indication Contraindication Side effects Treatment plan What is radiotherapy Radiotherapy is a Medical use of ionizing radiation in the treatment of malignant cancers. Ionizing radiation is radiation with sufficient energy to cause ionization. Source of radiation used in radiotherapy 1.xrays 2.gamma rays 3.high energy rays 4.high energy electrons -The absorbed dose of radiation is expressed as the unit Gray(GY) and is commonly delivered in a series of small doses called Fractions rather than a single dose [2 GY in 30 fractions Per day,5 days per week over 6 weeks]. Reason for fractionation: 4R -Repair -Reoxygenation -Redistribution -Repopulation Mechanism of action Aims of radiotherapy -delivering of an optimal dose to the tumor with minimum damage to the surrounding tissue and organs. -eradication of tumor -symptom control -improvement of quality of life. -prolongation of survival Types of radiotherapy 1.External beam radiation=> therapy delivers radiation by use of a linear accelerator. applicational (0cm) Close distance (1.5-30cm) Far distance (30cm-2m) 2.Internal RT(brachytherapy) Classification of radiotherapy 1.adjuvant Following BCS Following mastectomy 2.curative/radical Primary incision not possible( head or neck cancers) 3. neo-adjuvant Large fungating lesion(e.g rectal cancer) 4.Palliative Large fungating lesions Metastic cancer Indication Malignant tumors -Ca cervix -Anal and skin cancer -Head and neck cancer -Bladder Cancer -early lung cancer -early Ca Esophagus Metastatic injuries Some relapsing beign tumors(brain tumors) Hemoblatoses; Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin’s malignant Lymphoma, multiple myeloma. contraindication Absolute : Pregnancy pacemaker in the RT field : significant pre existing lung disease, if diffusing capacity is severely reduced . -Relative : connective tissue disorders (SLE , scleroderma) prior radiation therapy to the same part Side effects Acute Nausea and vomiting Skin desquamation Diarrhea Late Fibrosis Alopecia Lymphoedema Pneumonitis Cancer Cardiac problems Treatment planning Process by which practioners determine the appropriate radiotherapy for a patient with cancer. This involves: Initial consultation: review medical hx,MRI,CT, physical examination and obtaining of consent. Discus Tx options. 2. CT Stimulation: used to design the radiotherapy =>Immobilization =>Tattoo marking: help localize the exact point for beam line up.(3 small non permanent points are made. volume definition 4.Treatment plan- type of radiation machine, the amount of radiation and number of treatments. 5.Treatment delivery 6.Post treatment follow up THANK YOU
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