What is Radiotherapy?
It is a process in which a tumor is exposed to high-energy ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells.Nearly half of all cancer patients undergo radiotherapy as part of their treatment plan.There are two distinct categories of radiotherapy.Dr.Deepak Dangwal is one of the Best Radiation Oncologist in Navi Mumbai and specializes in breast cancer treatment.
In external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), radiation is delivered from an external source, typically a machine called a linear accelerator that focuses high-energy X-rays on the tumor site.
In Internal Beam Radiotherapy (IBR),a small piece of radioactive material is placed inside the body near the tumor during a procedure called brachytherapy.Alternatively, a radioactive liquid can be swallowed or injected into the body.
Radiotherapy may be administered for curative purposes, such as tumor elimination and/or recurrence prevention.It may also be used to relieve symptoms caused by cancer without the intention of eliminating the Tumor
How Breast Cancer Surgeons
A radiation oncologist is a cancer specialist who treats breast cancer by using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. After a patient is diagnosed, the oncologist creates a treatment plan tailored to the stage and location of the cancer.Radiation Therapy may be used after breast surgery, such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Techniques such as external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy are employed. The radiation oncologist ensures accurate targeting to minimize damage to healthy tissue.They also monitor patients, progress, manage side effects such as skin irritation or fatigue, and collaborate with a cancer care team to provide comprehensive treatment.
How Does Chemotherapy Work?
Chemotherapy is a Cancer Treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.It works by targeting rapidly dividing cells, a key characteristic of cancer. The drugs travel through the bloodstream and reach cancer cells throughout the body, which makes chemotherapy useful for treating cancers that have spread. However, chemotherapy can also affect healthy, fast-growing cells in areas such as the hair, digestive tract, and bone marrow, leading to side effects.Depending on the type and stage of cancer being treated, chemotherapy may be used alone or in combination with surgery, radiation, or other therapies.