Radiotherapy is a crucial component in the treatment of breast cancer, playing a significant role in eliminating cancer cells and reducing the risk of recurrence. It is often used after surgery, such as lumpectomy or mastectomy, to target any remaining cancerous cells that may not be visible during surgery.
Types of Radiotherapy for Breast Cancer
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This is the most common form of radiation, where high-energy X-rays are directed at the affected breast area to destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
- Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): A less common approach, brachytherapy involves placing a radioactive source inside the breast, delivering targeted radiation to specific areas.
Benefits of Radiotherapy
- Reduces the likelihood of cancer recurrence.
- Helps preserve the breast in patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery.
- Enhances overall survival rates when combined with other treatments like chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.
Side Effects and Management
While radiotherapy is effective, it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, fatigue, swelling, and changes in breast appearance. Modern techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy, help minimize these side effects by delivering precise radiation doses.
Advancements in Breast Cancer Radiotherapy
Recent developments, including hypofractionated radiation therapy (shorter treatment duration with higher doses per session) and deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) techniques, have improved treatment precision and reduced risks to the heart and lungs.
Radiotherapy remains a vital tool in breast cancer treatment, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life. As technology advances, radiation therapy continues to become more effective and less invasive, offering hope to countless breast cancer patients worldwide.
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