Stralingstherapie

Stralingstherapie, also known as radiation therapy, is a medical treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. The rays can come from a machine outside the body (external beam radiation therapy) or from materials called radioisotopes placed inside the body (internal radiation therapy or brachytherapy).

External beam radiation therapy is the most common type. It uses a machine to deliver radiation to the tumor from outside the body. The machine can be positioned in different ways to target the tumor from various angles. This is known as three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) or intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). IMRT allows for more precise targeting of the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds or wires directly into or next to the tumor. This can be done through a small incision or catheter. The radiation is delivered over a short period, usually a few days.

Stralingstherapie can be used to treat many types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, and brain cancer. It can be used to cure cancer, control symptoms, or improve quality of life. The side effects of radiation therapy can include fatigue, skin reactions, and damage to healthy tissue. However, these side effects are usually temporary and manageable. The effectiveness of radiation therapy depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. It is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.