CyberKnife Colon Cancer Treatment in Spokane
Overview
CyberKnife Colon Cancer Treatment at Spokane CyberKnife & Radiation Oncology Center
Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel or colon cancer, begins in the colon or rectum. It often starts as a growth called a polyp, and over time, some polyps can become cancerous. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, and abdominal discomfort. Early detection through screenings is vital for effective treatment and improved outcomes.
There are various treatment options for colorectal cancer. Treatment plans will depend on several factors, including the cancer’s location, the disease stage, your age and general health, and whether the cancer is new or recurrent. Many colorectal cancer patients are treated with combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.
The first line of treatment for most patients typically involves surgery to remove the cancer. Your physicians will assist you in determining the most suitable type of surgery, if any, for your situation.
If surgery is not an option, radiation therapy may be used, including advanced options available through CyberKnife colon cancer treatment. It can also be employed before surgery to facilitate cancer removal or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. Radiation therapy may be combined with chemotherapy.
Preparing for Colorectal Treatment at Spokane CyberKnife
Step 1: Consultation
First, you will meet with your radiation oncologist to discuss the recommended CyberKnife colon cancer radiation treatment options for your specific case and make a collaborative decision about your treatment.
Step 2: Simulation
As part of your treatment planning, the exact location of the tumor must first be determined. This is usually done using a CT scan, which stands for computed tomography, providing a detailed 3-D image of the treatment area using X-rays. Sometimes, temporary skin marks or even tiny tattoos (about the size of a freckle) are made on your body to assist the radiation therapist in positioning you correctly each day for treatment.
Step 3: Treatment planning
After the simulation is complete, your radiation oncologist will create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will take into account the location, type, and stage of your cancer, along with your medical history, lab tests, and other relevant factors to determine the best course of treatment. Typically, radiation therapy will require you to come in for treatment five days a week.
Step 4: Positioning for treatment
On your treatment days, your radiation therapist will position you on the radiation machine’s treatment couch. The couch will be adjusted to ensure that the radiation laser targets the small mark placed on your skin during your simulation, guaranteeing proper alignment for treatment.
Step 5: Start of treatment
The radiation is delivered by a machine called a linear accelerator, or linac. The linac will move around you to deliver Radiation is delivered by a machine called a linear accelerator, or linac. The linac will move around you to administer the radiation. You won’t see, hear, feel, or smell the beam. Treatment sessions typically last about 15 minutes, although your first session may take a little longer.
Step 6: Post-treatment and follow-up care
Every patient is unique, but most can maintain their daily activities during treatment, even if they experience side effects like fatigue. Once your final treatment is complete, your radiation oncologist will arrange periodic follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and the effectiveness of the treatment.
