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Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to pinpoint and destroy cancer cells. Although radiation treatment is similar to having an X-ray, the dose of radiation is higher and given over a longer period of time. Radiation therapy may be used to treat endometrial cancer after a hysterectomy or as the primary therapy, especially when surgery is not an option. Depending on the stage and grade of the cancer, radiation therapy may also be used at different points of treatment. A radiation therapist delivers the prescribed treatment and will assist you before and after your treatments. You will not be radioactive after receiving radiation treatment.
There are two types of radiation therapy and in some cases, both types are given.
In brachytherapy (internal radiation therapy), radioactive materials called radioisotopes are inserted through the vagina and placed in the uterus or other areas where cancer cells are found and remain there for two to three days. This type of therapy can be done during a hospital stay or on an outpatient basis. Placing the radioisotopes takes about 30 to 45 minutes under local or general anesthesia. Depending on your cancer, several treatments may be needed. Because brachytherapy delivers radiation to a local area with tiny pellets, there is little effect on nearby structures such as the bladder or rectum. Once treatment is completed, removal of the radioisotopes is a straightforward procedure, but it can be painful.
External radiation is similar to an X-ray but takes longer. This treatment is usually done on an outpatient basis for four to six weeks, five days per week for about 30 to 45 minutes each time. How much of the pelvic area needs to be exposed to radiation treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread. When radiation is ordered, patients will be given an appointment for pretreatment simulation. Simulation involves taking X-rays of your pelvis and marking the skin on your hips and lower back with a colored marking pen. The simulation is painless; however, you will have to lie face down on a special table for at least one hour. You will need to keep the colored lines marked on your skin, so you should not take tub baths during the course of radiation treatment, and sponge baths are better than showers. On the days of your actual treatment, you will lie on a treatment table. The radiation therapist will position you so the radiation will reach the right part of your body. Once you are positioned, do not move until the treatment is finished. Your position on the table will be same for each treatment. Your doctor will tell you when you can wash off your colored markings, after the course of treatment is over.
Radiation therapy may make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful. You may want to wait until after treatment is finished to resume sexual intercourse. Other side effects of radiation therapy include:
- Fatigue
- Dryness, itching, tightening, and burning in the vagina
- Red, dry, tender, itchy skin
- Moist, weepy skin (later in treatment)
- Hair loss in the treated area
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Frequent and uncomfortable urination
- Reduced white blood cell count
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