Is Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment Better Than Traditional Radiation?

While it is not clear which is better for your specific type of cancer, one of the biggest advantages of proton therapy is that there are fewer side effects. This is particularly beneficial for pediatric patients. Unlike adults, children's bodies are still growing and are more susceptible to the long-term effects of X-ray radiation. Using proton therapy may reduce the risk of growth abnormalities and developmental problems. Children with cancer often prefer this option over traditional radiation because of its reduced side effects.

Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment
Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment

A cyclotron, sometimes called a particle accelerator, is a device used in proton therapy. This device energizes protons and directs them through a complex system of metal tubes. These protons are then sent into a patient's body and are guided by magnetic fields. This procedure is much more efficient than conventional radiation because it targets cancer cells more effectively. However, it can be painful and can cause fatigue.

The treatment can last fifteen to 30 minutes and usually occurs five days a week. The duration of the treatment depends on how much of the tumor must be treated and how many treatments are needed. Additionally, the doctor and team will need to use specialized imaging to plan the treatment. This will involve a CT scan every week so that the dose can be adjusted based on weight changes and tumor size. Because of these risks, patients should consult with their doctors before starting this procedure.

The cost of proton therapy varies widely. Most insurance plans will cover this treatment, but not all. If you don't have any insurance coverage, contact your insurance company to find out whether your plan covers this treatment. Some health insurance companies also offer financial counseling services to help patients pay for the treatment. Depending on the type of cancer you have, your doctor will recommend which treatment will be most beneficial for you.

A proton is a subatomic particle that lives in the nucleus of each atom. Protons are accelerated and directed into the body using a special machine called a synchrotron. Protons travel through the body with great energy, but the dose is limited outside of the tumor. Conventional radiation treatments cause damage to nearby healthy tissue. However, proton therapy has the advantage of being safer for your overall health.

While traditional radiation treatment is often associated with an increased risk of secondary cancer in the affected organs, proton therapy has been shown to reduce this risk. The radiation oncologist will first perform a simulation to determine the best location to target your tumor. Once the exact location has been determined, your radiation oncologist will fit you with a device to remain still during the treatment. This device will either be a custom-made mask for your head or a body cradle.

Proton therapy is similar to traditional radiation but is much more effective for certain types of cancer. It's typically used to treat tumors that cannot be surgically removed or when traditional radiation isn't sufficient. Protons are also used in combination with other types of treatment, including chemotherapy. The same applies to the treatment of pediatric cancer. When you're undergoing treatment for cancer, be sure to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. Read More about Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment by the Best Cancer Specialist Doctor in Delhi NCR.

Best Center for Tomotherapy Treatment in India

 What is TomoTherapy?

TomoTherapy is an advanced cancer treatment method that uses radiation to destroy or shrink tumors. It combines the accuracy of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with the real-time accuracy of CT scans (also known as image-guided radiotherapy or IGRT).

TomoTherapy

Before each treatment, the clinician will perform a 3D CT scan of your cancer. These scans:

  • Confirm the exact location of cancer in your body.
  • Shows whether your tumor has changed size or location since the last treatment.
  • Let your care team ensure that there is no need to modify your current radiation plan.

What is the purpose of TomoTherapy?

Due to its accuracy and ability to adjust radiation dose, TomoTherapy® is very suitable for tumors that are difficult to reach or near important organs. It is commonly used to treat prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, and cancers of other structures in the head or neck. In addition, it can treat multiple tumors at once.

TomoTherapy also reduces the long-term side effects of "radiation retreatment" or reradiation. This is the second time radiotherapy has been used to treat recurring cancer.

Benefits of TomoTherapy

All types of radiation therapy will kill cancer cells. But TomoTherapy offers many advantages. These include:

  • Real-time monitoring of tumor location and size.
  • More targeted radiation can affect your tumor.
  • Higher doses of radiation are sent to the tumor, which may increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
  • The amount of radiation is significantly reduced, reaching healthy organs and tissues next to the tumor. This helps reduce side effects and long-term complications.

TomoTherapy treatment expectations

Tomotherapy treatment in India, Your Mercy care team will make sure you understand what to expect before, during, and after TomoTherapy treatment. E.g:

Some patients need tiny tattoos on their skin. These markers can help your care team align the radiation equipment with the treatment area.

You may also need to use custom molding equipment. It will help you get into the same position before each treatment and stay still during the treatment.

As with all radiation therapy techniques, TomoTherapy may cause temporary side effects. These usually include fatigue and skin changes (such as redness, itching, or peeling). You may also have side effects in specific parts of your body that are exposed to radiation. For example, if your cancer is in your mind, you may experience headaches, hair loss, or dry eyes.

Like any medication, TomoTherapy brings immediate or long-term risks. Our team will ensure that you fully understand the situation before starting treatment. If your doctor recommends this treatment, it is because he or she believes the benefits outweigh the risks. Your care team will carefully plan your treatment to ensure it is safe and effective.

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