strålebehandlingsmetoder

Strålebehandling, also known as radiation therapy, is a medical treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is a common and effective tool in the fight against cancer, often used alone or in combination with other therapies like surgery and chemotherapy. The radiation works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. While it targets cancer cells, some healthy cells can also be affected, leading to side effects. The type and severity of side effects depend on the area of the body being treated and the dose of radiation received. Common side effects can include fatigue, skin changes in the treated area, and sometimes nausea or diarrhea.

There are two main types of external beam radiation therapy: conventional and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Conventional therapy delivers a standard dose of radiation, while IMRT allows doctors to tailor the radiation dose to the shape of the tumor with greater precision, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Brachytherapy is another form of radiation therapy where radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumor. This allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered to the tumor while sparing surrounding tissues. The decision to use radiation therapy, and which type to use, is made by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, including oncologists and radiation oncologists, based on the specific type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. The treatment is carefully planned and delivered by trained professionals to ensure the maximum benefit with the least amount of harm.