Treatment Delivery – Prostate Cancer Radiation is delivered using a large machine called a “Linear Accelerator”. The linear accelerator generates radiation by accelerating electrons to very high energy and then releasing that energy in the form of x-rays directed at the patient. You will lie on the treatment table in the same position you were in during the CT simulation. That way we can be sure that the treatment plan will be delivered accurately. The radiation therapist will be in the room with you to position you correctly under the machine. You will notice some lasers shining on your skin. The therapists will align your tattoos to these lasers to help with accurate positioning. When the radiation turns on, you will be the only one in the room, but the therapists will be able to see and hear you with audio and video monitors. If you need a therapist for any reason, you will be able to talk to them directly. They will stop the radiation and come into the room to help you if needed.
Linear Accelerator
(continued on next page) Linear Accelerator rotates around the patient and shapes the radiation beam.
The therapists will take x-rays before they turn on the treatment radiation to make sure you’re in the right position. They will use hip bones and the implanted gold seeds to make small adjustments to your position. After matching the current image to the image from the CT simulation, you will feel the table shift slightly, using very small movements. Even though the movements are small, every little bit counts to make sure radiation is delivered as accurately as possible. The therapists may also take a CT scan on the treatment machine and compare
Images are taken before treatment to set-up the patient.
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