Proton Therapy

What is Proton Therapy?

Proton therapy is a radiation treatment that delivers a precise beam of protons to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used to treat advanced cancers, together with other therapies such as surgery and chemotherapy.

What are the benefits of Proton Therapy?

Conventional radiation therapy, which uses X-ray, can cause damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The key benefit of proton therapy is the ability to provide a focused treatment that can target the tumour precisely. With less healthy tissues affected by the radiation, the general result of proton therapy causes fewer and less severe side effects. This may lower the risk of developing secondary cancers, especially in younger patients.

When is Proton Therapy considered?

Proton therapy is considered in specific situations where the benefits outweigh those of conventional radiation therapy. Here are some common indications where proton therapy might be recommended:

Tumours Near Critical Structures

When a tumour is situated close to crucial organs or structures, like the brain, spinal cord, or eye, proton therapy’s precision helps reduce harm to these delicate areas.

Pediatric Cancers

With children more vulnerable to the long-term side effects of radiation, proton therapy is particularly advantageous in minimising these risks and reducing the potential long-term effects on developing tissues and organs.

Recurrent or Residual Tumours

For tumours that have recurred or remain after surgery, proton therapy can provide a more targeted treatment approach, potentially offering greater effectiveness.

High-Dose Radiation Required

When a high dose of radiation is required to treat cancer, proton therapy can ensure that the dose is precisely targeted at the tumour, while minimising exposure to the surrounding healthy tissues.

Patient-Specific Factors

Individual factors like a patient’s overall health, age, and prior treatments can impact the decision. Proton therapy may be selected to enhance outcomes or minimise side effects based on these factors.

Proton theraphy

How long do Proton Therapy treatments take?

Depending on the size, location, and number of tumours, you can expect to spend around 30–60 minutes per session. While the actual proton radiation treatment might last only a few minutes, additional time is required for positioning and calibrating the machine before the proton beam is delivered. The entire appointment, from arrival to departure, could take an hour or more, depending on complexity.

Most patients require several sessions of proton therapy. Sessions may be daily, twice a day, or less frequent, often spanning multiple weeks. Your radiation oncologist will discuss the best treatment schedule for your specific needs.

Recovery after Proton Therapy treatment

After receiving proton beam treatment, most individuals can return home and resume their normal activities. Due to proton therapy having fewer and milder side effects, most patients would only experience fatigue or mild discomfort, allowing for a relatively smooth recovery.

During the course of treatment, your doctor may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, assess how the treatment is affecting the tumour, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan if required.

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