What should you know about a Philips linear accelerator?

A linear accelerator, often called a linac, generates radiation beams and directs them toward a planned target. Before treatment, the team uses imaging, measurements and positioning supports to design the beam arrangement. The machine may rotate around you while you remain still on the treatment couch. The radiation is delivered by the machine; it does not remain in your body after the session.

Treatment planning is tailored to the tumour’s location, size and relationship to nearby organs. The equipment may be used for several radiotherapy approaches, including highly focused treatments when suitable. The machine model is only one part of care: the radiation oncologist, medical physicist, radiographers and other staff check the plan and monitor you.

Follow the instructions about eating, drinking, medicines and bladder or bowel preparation because these vary with the treatment area. Wear comfortable clothing and tell the team about pregnancy, implanted devices, difficulty lying flat or trouble staying still. At the first visit, you may have a planning scan and small positioning marks or supports to help reproduce your position.

During treatment, keep the planned position and use the communication system if you feel unwell. The team can see and hear you. Learn more about Linear Accelerator, Radiotherapy or Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy to understand the equipment and treatment approaches.

Contact your radiotherapy team promptly for severe or rapidly worsening pain, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, new breathing difficulty, confusion, or skin changes that become moist or very painful. Report symptoms early even when they seem unrelated, because the team may adjust supportive care or check for another cause. Seek emergency help for severe breathing trouble, fainting or sudden weakness.

What area will be treated, and what is the purpose of radiation? How will my position be reproduced each day? What preparation is needed? Which short-term effects should I report immediately, and who is the contact after hours?