What should you know about the Versa HD linear accelerator?

The machine rotates around you while a treatment team positions your body carefully. It can direct radiation from different angles and use a shaped beam to match the treatment plan. A planning scan helps the team map the target and nearby organs before treatment begins.

The machine does not touch you during beam delivery, and you do not feel the radiation itself. You remain awake and may hear sounds or see the equipment move. The radiation team watches and communicates with you throughout the appointment.

Follow the instructions about eating, drinking, medicines, and bladder or bowel preparation if your centre provides them. Wear comfortable clothing and tell the team about pain, difficulty lying flat, implanted devices, or a possibility of pregnancy before planning or treatment.

During the session, keep the position shown by the therapists and use the communication system if you need help. Skin changes, tiredness, or other effects depend on the treated area and dose plan; report them early so supportive care can be arranged.

Call your radiotherapy team for severe or rapidly worsening pain, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, new confusion, or skin breakdown in the treated area. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or symptoms of a serious allergic reaction after any prescribed contrast or medicine.

What area will be treated, and how will nearby organs be protected? Is this plan conventional radiotherapy or stereotactic body radiotherapy? How long will each visit take, and which side effects should prompt a same-day call?