After surgery for cancer of the uterine lining, radiation — often vaginal brachytherapy, sometimes external beam — is used in selected cases to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
For endometrial cancer, radiation is usually given after surgery, tailored to the individual risk of recurrence shown by the pathology.
Following hysterectomy, the decision to add radiation depends on factors such as tumour grade, depth of invasion and stage. Lower-risk disease may need vaginal brachytherapy alone; higher-risk disease may warrant external beam radiotherapy to the pelvis.
Brachytherapy is typically a short course of a few sessions; external beam is delivered daily over weeks. Dr. Bhatnagar will explain which approach your pathology calls for, and why.
Not everyone does. It is advised in selected cases based on the grade, depth of invasion and stage, to lower the risk of the cancer returning.
A short treatment delivering radiation to the top of the vagina, the commonest site of recurrence. It usually takes a few sessions as an outpatient and is well tolerated.
Some patients need external beam radiation in addition, particularly where lymph nodes are involved or the risk of recurrence is higher.
Mild bowel and bladder irritation and tiredness are the usual effects. Vaginal dryness and narrowing can occur, and simple measures are advised to manage it.
Usually once the surgical wound has healed well, commonly within six to eight weeks.
General information, not a substitute for a consultation. Your plan depends on your reports, stage and general health — discuss your case with Dr. Bhatnagar.
Bring your reports and scans for a consultation — he will tell you plainly whether radiation has a role.
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