About Radiation Therapy
Key Highlights
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Highly targeted treatment that focuses on cancer cells to spare healthy tissue.Can be used as a curative, adjuvant (after surgery), or palliative (symptom-relieving) treatment.Non-invasive and generally painless during delivery.Often used in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy for a comprehensive approach.Utilizes advanced technology (e.g., IMRT, IGRT, SBRT) for extreme precision.Effective for a wide range of solid tumors and some blood disorders./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Primary treatment to cure localized cancers (e.g., prostate, breast, lung, head & neck).
- Adjuvant therapy after surgery to eliminate any remaining microscopic cancer cells.
- Neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to shrink a tumor, making it easier to remove.
- Palliative care to relieve symptoms like pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by advanced cancer.
- Treatment of benign (non-cancerous) conditions like keloids or certain neurological disorders in rare cases.
- As part of a bone marrow or stem cell transplant regimen.
How to prepare
- Initial consultation with a Radiation Oncologist to review medical history, imaging, and pathology reports.
- Simulation session: A CT scan is performed to map the exact treatment area; tiny tattoo dots may be placed for precise alignment.
- Custom immobilization devices (masks, molds) may be created to ensure you remain still during treatment.
- The radiation oncology team develops a personalized treatment plan, which can take several days.
- Discuss skin care instructions; the treatment area should be clean and free of lotions, powders, or deodorants on treatment days.
- Maintain good nutrition and hydration; address any dental issues if treating head/neck area.
Risks & possible complications
- Fatigue, which is common and often cumulative during treatment.
- Skin reactions in the treatment area (redness, dryness, peeling similar to a sunburn).
- Site-specific side effects (e.g., sore throat with head/neck radiation, urinary issues with pelvic radiation).
- Long-term risks depend on the area treated and may include fibrosis (tissue thickening), lymphedema, or secondary cancers (very low risk).
- Temporary hair loss only in the area being treated.
- Nausea or appetite changes if the abdomen is treated.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Most side effects are temporary and begin to improve a few weeks after treatment ends.
- Gentle skin care is crucial: use recommended creams, avoid sun exposure, and do not scrub the treated area.
- Manage fatigue with balanced rest and light activity as tolerated.
- Follow a nutritious diet to support healing and manage any appetite changes.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your Radiation Oncologist to monitor recovery and treatment response.
- Report any new, persistent, or worsening symptoms to your healthcare team promptly.
- Emotional support through counseling or support groups can be beneficial during recovery.
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Typical hospital stay: Typically outpatient (0 days)
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Expected recovery time: Side effects subside over 2-6 weeks; full recovery varies
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering radiation therapy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for radiation therapy in India include Cytecare Hospital, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform radiation therapy. MediFyr helps you compare radiation oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for radiation therapy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 150 Thousand – 800 Thousand | Typically outpatient (0 days) | ~ Side effects subside over 2-6 weeks; full recovery varies | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 525 Thousand – 2.8 Million | Typically outpatient (0 days) | ~ Side effects subside over 2-6 weeks; full recovery varies | Know More |
Top hospitals for Radiation Therapy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated radiation oncology teams and experience managing patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Anjali Reddy, a 42-year-old software engineer...
Anjali Reddy, a 42-year-old software engineer and mother of two, was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer after discovering a lump during a self-exam. A lumpectomy successfully removed the tumor, but her oncologist, Dr. Evans, recommended adjuvant radiation therapy to eliminate any microscopic cancer cells and significantly reduce the risk of recurrence. Anjali underwent 20 sessions of external beam radiation over four weeks. The treatment itself was painless, but she struggled with cumulative fatigue and skin irritation resembling a sunburn on her chest. Emotionally, she felt anxious and vulnerable before starting, mourning the loss of her normal routine. The daily trips to the clinic felt like a relentless reminder of her illness. After completing treatment, her skin healed within a few weeks with proper care, and her energy slowly returned. The outcome was positive, with follow-up scans showing no evidence of disease. Post-treatment, Anjali felt a profound sense of relief and closure. She channeled her experience into advocacy, starting a support group at her local community center, transforming her fear into a source of strength for others.
Radiation Oncologists for Radiation Therapy
Explore experienced radiation oncologists who regularly perform radiation therapy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 35 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 13 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 13 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, vijayawada
- 31 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
- 24 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida
- 16 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
- 5 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
- 9 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi
- 24 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata
- 20 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 31 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 16 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 31 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 11 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 30 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 12 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata
- 14 Years Experience
- Radiation Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata