What to Expect
Consultation
On your first visit to our office, you will meet with one of our board certified, radiation oncologists to see if radiation therapy is right for you. During your initial visit, the doctor will evaluate all of your records including your pathology report and all imaging and lab studies. The doctor will also perform a physical examination to assess the extent of your disease. Treatment options and potential side effects will be discussed and explained to you. We encourage you to bring a list of questions to discuss with the doctor.
Simulation & Treatment Planning
To be most effective, radiation therapy must be aimed precisely at the same target or targets every time treatment is given. The process of measuring your anatomy and marking your skin to help your team direct the beams of radiation safely is called simulation.
During simulation, the radiation oncologist and radiation therapist will outline the exact treatment areas and mark the area to be treated directly on your skin. In most cases simulation takes place several days after your consultation.
After simulation, your doctor and other members of the treatment team review the information they obtained during simulation to develop a treatment plan.
Many patients require a CAT scan treatment planning. This CT scan is in addition to your diagnostic CT scan. The CAT scan is for treatment planning only and is part of the simulation process.
Vital Signs / Blood Work
Vital signs are once a week. Instructions will be given by a medical assistant or nurse.
Treatments
When you undergo external beam radiation therapy treatment, each session is painless, similar to getting an x-ray. Treatments are usually scheduled five days a week, every day except Saturday and Sunday and continue up to 8 weeks. It is very important that you receive all of the treatments your physician prescribes, even if you are feeling better. The number of radiation treatments you will need depends on the size, location and type of cancer you have, your general health and other medical treatments you may be receiving. Your doctor will see you regularly and will supervise and manage your ongoing treatments.
Appointments
Appointments for treatment are available throughout the day, Monday through Friday. You will be able to make appointments with your therapist. If you must be late or miss an appointment, please call 407-956-3300. By notifying us in advance, we can accommodate other patients. When you arrive for your appointment we will try to keep your wait time to a minimum, however there may be unforeseen delays. Your patience and understanding are appreciated.
Follow-Up Appointments
After treatment is completed, follow-up appointments will be scheduled so that your radiation oncologist can make sure your recovery is proceeding normally and can continue to monitor your health status. As time goes on, the frequency of your visits will decrease. It is important that you keep these appointments.