Sädehoitoosasto

Sädehoitoosasto, or Radiation Therapy Unit, is a specialized department within a hospital or cancer center dedicated to the treatment of cancer and other radiation-sensitive conditions using ionizing radiation. The primary goal of a sädehoitoosasto is to deliver precise and effective radiation therapy to patients, aiming to control or eliminate cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

The unit typically consists of a team of healthcare professionals, including radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists, and radiation therapy technicians. The radiation oncologist is responsible for the overall treatment planning and patient management, while the radiation therapists and dosimetrists focus on the technical aspects of radiation delivery and dose calculations. Radiation therapy technicians operate the radiation equipment and ensure the safe and accurate delivery of radiation treatments.

The sädehoitoosasto utilizes various types of radiation therapy, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), brachytherapy, and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). EBRT involves the use of a linear accelerator to deliver radiation from outside the body, targeting the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. Brachytherapy, on the other hand, involves the placement of radioactive sources inside the body, either temporarily or permanently, to treat tumors located in or near critical structures. IMRT is an advanced technique that uses computer-controlled linear accelerators to deliver radiation in a highly precise and customized manner, allowing for better targeting of tumors and reduced exposure to healthy tissues.

Pre-treatment planning is a crucial component of radiation therapy. This involves creating a detailed treatment plan based on the patient's medical history, imaging studies, and the specific characteristics of the tumor. The plan is then reviewed and approved by the radiation oncologist before the treatment begins. Throughout the treatment course, regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient's response to therapy and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

The sädehoitoosasto plays a vital role in the multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, working closely with other medical specialties such as surgery, oncology, and radiology. By providing high-quality radiation therapy, the unit contributes to improved patient outcomes and enhanced quality of life for cancer survivors.