Linear accel in radiotherapy

A linear accelerator makes high-energy radiation for cancer treatment outside the body. Its rotating arm directs beams from selected angles while you lie on a treatment couch. The planning team uses scans to map the target and nearby organs, then shapes and positions the beams to fit the plan. Some treatments use image guidance to check alignment. The equipment is used by a team that includes radiation specialists, medical physicists and therapists.

A linac can support conventional external-beam treatment and more focused approaches such as stereotactic body radiotherapy. The choice depends on the target, its movement, surrounding organs and the purpose of treatment.

Attend the planning appointment and ask what preparation is needed for your scan or treatment sessions. A mask, mould or other support may help reproduce your position. Tell the team if you have pain, anxiety, difficulty lying flat, an implanted device or a possibility of pregnancy. Keep still during delivery and follow breathing instructions when given. Use only products approved for the treated skin and report changes rather than altering care yourself.

Speak with your radiotherapy team about worsening soreness, blistering, persistent nausea, diarrhoea, swallowing problems, fever or a new neurological symptom. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, seizure, sudden confusion, collapse or rapidly worsening weakness. The urgency can depend on the treatment area and your other health conditions, so keep the centre's contact instructions accessible.

What does linear accel mean for my treatment plan? Will my plan use image guidance or stereotactic treatment? How will you protect nearby organs? What should I do before each session? Which symptoms require urgent help?