Procedure Description:

External beam therapy uses highly focused beams of radiation to destroy cancer cells. The radiation is directed to the site where the cancer is found. Radiation therapy works by destroying the cancer cells’ ability to reproduce; the body then naturally gets rid of these cells. About 50-60% of cancer patients are treated with external beam radiation therapy at some point during their disease.

Duration

10-20 minutes for each treatment. On average treatments are 5 days a week for 2-8 weeks.

Follow-up Care

Please see your physician for details.

Patient Preparation

None.

Potential Adverse Effects

Please see your physician for details.