What should you know about an MR linear accelerator?

A linear accelerator creates high-energy radiation shaped and directed towards a treatment area. In an MR linear accelerator, magnetic resonance imaging provides soft-tissue information while the person is positioned for treatment. This can help the team see anatomy and tumour position, especially when organs move or their shape changes. The machine does not make radiotherapy suitable for every cancer; the decision depends on the treatment aim, body area, tumour movement, previous therapy and your general health.

The radiotherapy team first performs planning scans and creates a position that can be reproduced at each visit. Tell them about metal implants, implanted electronic devices, medication patches, pregnancy possibility and anxiety in enclosed spaces. Follow any instructions about food, fluids or bladder and bowel preparation. During treatment, supports may help you stay still. The team may pause delivery to review images or adjust the plan. Ask how many visits are expected and how to care for the treated skin or body area.

Report rapidly worsening pain, fever, severe skin changes, repeated vomiting, new weakness, confusion or difficulty eating and drinking. Seek emergency care for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, a seizure or sudden neurological symptoms. Radiotherapy effects can develop during treatment or after it, so keep the department's contact details and use them when symptoms are concerning.

Ask what the MRI adds to your treatment, whether an MR linear accelerator or another radiotherapy approach is more suitable, and how accuracy is checked. Discuss preparation, treatment time, likely effects on nearby organs, medicines for symptoms, and the person to contact between visits.