What is Breast Radiotherapy?

Radiotherapy is a treatment that is used in many different types of cancer. It is particularly effective in women with breast cancer and can be used in different stages of the disease. In the case of breast conserving surgery radiotherapy finishes off the treatment of the breast by killing any remaining cancer cells that may have spread a short distance away from the surgically removed primary tumour.

Before the commencement of radiotherapy, patients will see the Consultant Clinical Oncologist. This will provide a chance to discuss the forthcoming treatment so that it is fully understood. It is also a time to ask any questions. Shortly before the course of radiotherapy begins each patient attends the radiotherapy centre for measurements to be taken. This is called planning and enables the radiotherapy machines to be set up exactly to match your individual measurements. The radiotherapy itself takes just a few minutes each day. The radiotherapy centre can work with you to arrange a regular time of the day for the treatment so that it is as convenient as possible.

It is important to understand that the treatments themselves are not carried out on site since chemotherapy and radiotherapy require large specialised facilities, but our clinic has direct access to all of the best treatment centres in London.

Side effects

Modern radiotherapy is given very accurately and carefully. The dose is monitored all of the time and the x-rays are carefully targeted so that they only affect the breast tissue. A small amount of radiation does affect the underlying tissue such as the heart and the lungs. Unless a woman is already suffering from serious heart or lung disease a small amount of radiotherapy to these areas does not cause any serious long-term damage. It is only when there is pre-existing heart or lung disease that breast radiotherapy may be a problem.

The one side effect that patient’s usually experience with breast radiotherapy is a temporary reaction of the skin. This is a bit like sunburn as it causes redness and soreness and sometimes even peeling of the skin. The Radiotherapy Consultant will provide information on how this may best be treated. The redness and discomfort usually settle a month or two after the treatment is finished. Radiotherapy will usually also make the breast tissue feel slightly firmer than on the normal side and although this also gradually returns to normal it may take longer than the reaction of the skin.