Now that your planning is complete, you are ready to start your treatment.
You may be able to start your treatment on the same day as your simulator
appointment.
However, it may be necessary to start your treatment several days later.
This is because for some patients it is necessary to produce a "treatment
map" using a specialised computer. This process is complicated and
can take several days.
Your doctor or radiographer will explain how many treatments you are to
have and when you will start.
What happens when I have the treatment?
The
radiographer will give you the precise treatment prescribed by the doctor.
They will explain what is going to happen to you.
They will ask you to remove or loosen any clothing that covers the area
needing treatment. They will then help you on to the treatment couch and
will try to make you as comfortable as possible. You will be asked to
lie as still as possible for a few minutes whilst you are being treated.
During your treatment, there is no need to hold your breath.
When the radiographer is confident that you are in the correct position
for treatment, they will leave the room to switch the machine on. When
they switch the machine on it will make a buzzing noise.
The radiographer will be watching you carefully on a television screen.
If, for any reason, you need them, just wave your hand and they will come
in to you immediately.
Treatment only lasts a few minutes and is completely painless.
When you have had your treatment, we will arrange your next treatment
appointment.
What are the side effects of the treatment?
Side effects depend on the area of your body being treated and on the
number of treatments, you are going to have. Every patient is different
and therefore, you may not experience the same side effects as somebody
else.
Most side effects are temporary but some may persist for weeks or months
after the completion of your treatment.
We will provide a leaflet that explains the specific side effects for
the area you are having treated. This will give you more information about
the side effects that you can expect to happen either during or after
your treatment has finished.