What should you know about Ethos linear accelerator?

Ethos is a radiotherapy platform built around a linear accelerator. Before a session, imaging helps the team see the treatment area and nearby organs. Software can compare the day’s anatomy with the original plan and help the team assess whether an adapted plan is appropriate. The radiation oncologist and treatment team review that plan before treatment is delivered.

Adaptive planning may be considered when a tumour, organ, or surrounding tissue has shifted or changed shape. It does not mean every appointment uses a new plan, and it does not remove the need for careful checks. The machine remains one part of a wider radiotherapy process involving consultation, imaging, planning, safety verification, and follow-up.

Ask whether your course uses daily image guidance or adaptive planning, and how the team will decide if an adjustment is needed. Follow instructions about bladder or bowel preparation, skin care, and positioning because consistent setup helps the planned dose reach the intended area. Tell the team about new pain, swelling, weight change, pregnancy possibility, implanted devices, or difficulty holding the required position.

Your appointments may include time for imaging and review before radiation. Treatment itself is usually brief, but the visit can take longer when the team evaluates an adapted plan. Keep the treatment area clean as instructed and report symptoms early so supportive care can be arranged.

Contact your radiotherapy team promptly if you develop worsening skin reactions, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, trouble swallowing, new breathlessness, fever, confusion, or pain that is difficult to control. The urgency depends on the body area treated and the symptom’s severity. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or sudden neurological changes.

Which area will be treated, and what imaging will be taken before each session? How might an adaptive plan change the appointment? What side effects are specific to my treatment area, and who should I call outside clinic hours?