Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses precisely targeted high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors, and remains one of the most common cancer treatments — used either alone or alongside surgery and chemotherapy depending on the cancer type and stage. Modern radiation techniques have become remarkably precise at targeting tumors while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.

How radiation therapy works

Radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. While it does affect some healthy cells in the treatment path, healthy cells are generally better able to repair this damage than cancer cells are — which is the underlying principle that makes radiation an effective and targeted treatment.

Types of radiation therapy

External beam radiation therapy

The most common form, delivered from a machine outside the body, precisely aimed at the tumor over a series of sessions — typically daily on weekdays over several weeks, with each session itself taking only a few minutes.

Brachytherapy (internal radiation)

A radioactive source is placed directly inside or very close to the tumor, allowing a high, concentrated dose to the cancer while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissue — commonly used for cancers like prostate and cervical cancer.

Stereotactic radiosurgery

Despite the name, this involves no actual incision — instead, it delivers a very high, precisely focused dose of radiation in just one to a few sessions, often used for smaller, well-defined tumors, including certain brain tumors.

What the treatment planning process involves

Before treatment begins, a detailed planning session — including specialized imaging — maps the exact tumor location and creates a precise treatment plan. Patients are often fitted with a custom positioning device to ensure they're in exactly the same position for every session, since precision matters considerably in avoiding healthy tissue.

What to expect during treatment

Individual sessions are painless and typically brief, though the daily commitment over several weeks is a real consideration when planning around work and family life. Side effects tend to build gradually over the course of treatment rather than appearing immediately, and are generally specific to the treatment area:

1. Skin changes resembling a sunburn in the treated area
2. Fatigue that tends to increase as treatment progresses
3. Site-specific effects — for example, digestive symptoms with abdominal radiation, or throat irritation with treatment near the neck

Most side effects are temporary and improve within weeks of completing treatment, though your care team will discuss what's specifically expected for your treatment area.

Radiation combined with other treatments

Radiation is frequently used alongside surgery — either before to shrink a tumor or after to eliminate any remaining cancer cells — and sometimes alongside chemotherapy, which can make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation's effects. Your oncology team will explain exactly how radiation fits into your broader treatment plan.

Planning your treatment

Our oncology specialists can walk you through exactly what your recommended radiation course involves, realistic expectations for side effects, and clear guidance on costs across your full treatment schedule.