Before Starting Radiation Therapy

At the American Oncology Institute, meticulous preparation and planning precede every radiation therapy procedure. Before commencing treatment, a series of essential steps are undertaken to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.

Here’s an overview of what typically happens:

a. Consultation with Radiation Oncologist:

• You will meet with a AOI Consultant (Radiation Oncologist) who will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and discuss your diagnosis.
• The AOI Consultant (Radiation Oncologist) will explain the goals of radiation therapy, the process, potential side effects, and answer any questions you may have.

b. Simulation:

• A planning session called a simulation is scheduled. During this session, the precise area to be treated is identified.
• You will lie on a table in a position that will be replicated for each treatment. Sometimes, Molds or masks are made to help you stay in the exact same position.
• Imaging scans, such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans, are taken to map out the treatment area.

c. Marking the Treatment Area:

• The treatment area is often marked on your skin with small tattoos or temporary ink marks to ensure precise targeting of the radiation.
• These marks help position you accurately for each treatment session.

d. Treatment Planning:

• Using the images from the simulation, the radiation oncologist and a medical physicist at AOI develop a detailed treatment plan.
• They determine the appropriate dose of radiation, the angles of the radiation beams, and the number of treatment sessions needed.
• Advanced software is used to design the plan, ensuring that the radiation targets the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

e. Pre-Treatment Verification:

• Before starting the actual treatment, a verification session may be conducted to confirm that everything is set up correctly.
• This may involve a dry run or a preliminary treatment session to check the accuracy of the treatment plan and positioning.

f. Education and Instructions:

• You will receive instructions on what to expect during the treatment sessions, how to care for your skin, and any potential side effects to watch for.
• Information on nutrition, physical activity, and general self-care during the course of treatment may also be provided.