Radiotherapy can be used to shrink tumours, stop cancer from spreading, or even cure cancer in some cases.
Radiotherapy is carefully planned to target cancer cells while protecting the surrounding healthy tissue. One of the key machines used to deliver radiotherapy is called a linear accelerator (LINAC).
What is radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy uses controlled doses of radiation to damage the DNA in cancer cells. This prevents them from growing and dividing, causing them to eventually die. The treatment is usually given over a series of sessions, called fractions, which allows healthy cells time to recover between treatments. Radiotherapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, like surgery or chemotherapy, depending on the type of cancer and its location.
How does a LINAC work?
A linear accelerator (LINAC) is the machine that delivers external beam radiotherapy, which is the most common form of radiotherapy. The LINAC generates high-energy X-rays or electrons and directs them at the cancer from outside your body. These beams are carefully controlled to focus only on the area where the cancer is located, minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Why is the LINAC important?
The LINAC is vital for delivering safe and accurate radiotherapy. Because of its advanced technology, it can treat tumours located deep inside the body, as well as cancers in more sensitive areas, like the head, neck, or lungs. It allows your doctors to deliver high doses of radiation with great precision, increasing the chances of effectively treating the cancer while reducing the risk of side effects.
After treatment
After your radiotherapy sessions, you won’t be radioactive, so it’s safe to be around others, including children and pregnant women. Some side effects, such as skin irritation or fatigue, may occur, but these will be monitored and managed by your healthcare team.
In summary
Radiotherapy, delivered through a linear accelerator (LINAC), is an essential part of many cancer treatment plans. The LINAC allows for precise and safe radiation delivery, targeting cancer cells while protecting healthy tissues. This advanced technology plays a crucial role in treating cancer effectively, making radiotherapy an important option in the fight against cancer.