What should you know about Bragg peak radiotherapy?

Treatment planners combine particles of different energies so the high-dose region covers the tumour's shape. This can reduce dose beyond the target, although tissues along the beam path still receive radiation.

Charged particles slow as they travel through the body and release a concentrated burst of energy near the end of their range. The planned depth is adjusted using beam energy, while several beam directions can be combined around the target.

Accuracy depends on imaging, body contours and the tissues in the beam path. Changes in breathing, bowel gas, weight or tumour size can alter the particle range, so immobilisation, image guidance and sometimes repeat planning scans are important.

Attend the planning scan in the position described by the radiotherapy team and follow any instructions about bladder filling, fasting or breathing. Tell them if pain, anxiety or limited movement makes it difficult to hold the required position.

During the course, keep the team updated about weight change, swelling, new medicines and new symptoms. Do not apply unapproved creams or dressings to the treatment area, because skin advice varies with the site and dose plan.

Report increasing pain, skin breakdown, inability to eat or drink, repeated vomiting, fever or a sudden decline in your usual function. The likely side effects depend on which body tissues are close to the treatment field.

Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, a seizure, fainting, sudden confusion, new weakness on one side or uncontrolled bleeding. Do not wait for the next radiotherapy appointment when these red-flag symptoms occur.

Ask why particle treatment is being considered for your tumour, which nearby organs the plan aims to protect and what alternatives are available. Clarify how movement is managed, how positioning is checked and what could trigger a new planning scan.

Your team can also explain the expected early and later effects for the treated area, the follow-up schedule and the contact route for symptoms between visits.