What should you know about lattice radiotherapy?

A radiation oncologist uses scans to map the tumour and design a three-dimensional pattern of stronger and weaker treatment regions. The stronger regions are sometimes called vertices. The plan aims to treat selected parts of a bulky or difficult-to-treat tumour while managing the dose received by nearby organs. It is not a separate type of radiation; it is a way of shaping radiation within a course of radiotherapy.

Suitability depends on the tumour's size, position, movement, previous treatment, and the health of nearby tissues. It may be discussed for cancers in areas such as the breast, pelvis, head and neck, or brain, but the decision is individual.

Ask how the team will define the treatment targets, how many planning scans are needed, and whether treatment is delivered in one session or over several visits. Tell the team about previous radiotherapy, implanted devices, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, and medicines that affect healing. During treatment, report new skin changes, swelling, pain, fatigue, or symptoms affecting the treated body area so they can be assessed.

The plan may be reviewed against other options, including conventional radiotherapy or a different cancer treatment. You can read about conditions where radiotherapy may be used, such as [Breast Cancer](/conditions/breast-cancer/) or [Head and Neck Cancer](/conditions/head-and-neck-cancer/).

Contact your oncology team promptly for worsening pain, rapidly increasing swelling, a new wound, fever, repeated vomiting, or difficulty eating, drinking, breathing, speaking, walking, or using an arm or leg. Seek urgent help for sudden weakness, a seizure, severe breathlessness, heavy bleeding, or sudden confusion. The right urgency depends on the treatment area and your personal plan.

What is the purpose of the lattice pattern in my treatment plan? Which organs are close to the target? What side effects could appear during treatment or later? How will scans and examinations show whether the plan is working? What symptoms should prompt a same-day call?