What is Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy is a painless treatment. It is used to target cancers (and some benign conditions).
It works by using high energy radiation to penetrate & destroy cells within an accurately planned area, such as a tumour. In some cases, where there is no tumour present, it can be used to reduce the risk of cancer returning.
Treatments are delivered over a number of days (fractions). Normal cells have the ability to repair, but abnormal cells such as cancer cells are destroyed over time. Rest days are built into the course to enable healthy cells to recover.
Radiation dose is prescribed to a precisely targeted area. The plan is specific to each patient. There are many different treatment schedules. The number of treatments required will be guided the type of cancer that you have and will be discussed with you.
Why is Radiotherapy Used?
Radiotherapy is often given alongside other forms of cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery and immunotherapy. It can also be given alone.
We can use radiotherapy to:
- Prevent recurring cancer or cure cancer (radical radiotherapy)
- Control (slow down) the growth of cancer
- Relieve the symptoms of cancer (palliative radiotherapy)
Your Oncologist will discuss the intended outcome, risks and benefits with you before you sign a consent form.
Our Locations and how to find us
Our main Radiotherapy department is situated at Poole hospital as part of University Hospitals Dorset. Our satellite centre in Dorchester houses one radiotherapy linear accelerator machine.
Some radiotherapy treatment types cannot be delivered currently at Dorchester. You will be informed if your intended treatment can be delivered at the Robert White Radiotherapy Centre.
Pre-Treatment Planning is only carried out at the Poole site.
Find out more about our locations, and how to find us:
