Is radiotherapy done with a linear accelerator?

A linear accelerator, often called a linac, creates high-energy X-rays or electrons and directs them towards a planned treatment area. The machine can rotate around the treatment couch while shaped beams are aimed from different angles. Imaging may be used before or during a session to check positioning.

The treatment team designs the beam arrangement around the tumour and nearby organs. You do not feel the radiation beam, and the machine does not remain inside your body. The appointment can include setup time, imaging and treatment delivery; the exact schedule depends on the plan.

During planning, you may have scans and a custom positioning device or small skin marks to help you lie in the same position. On treatment days, tell staff if the position is uncomfortable or if you have new pain, breathing difficulty or trouble staying still.

Follow skin-care and medicine instructions from your team. Ask whether you may eat, drink, work or exercise as usual. Side effects depend mainly on the body area and dose pattern rather than the machine name.

Call the radiotherapy team for worsening pain, marked skin breakdown, repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, new breathing trouble or symptoms that prevent eating, drinking or taking medicines. Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion or sudden weakness.

Will a linear accelerator deliver my treatment? Which imaging and beam-shaping methods will be used? How will nearby organs be protected? How long will setup and treatment take? Which side effects should prompt a call?