Varian Halcyon™ Radiotherapy

Once the radiation oncologist has decided this treatment is suitable for you, the planning stage begins whereby imaging scans are taken first to determine the size, shape and location of the tumour. The site of treatment will be immobilised using devices such as face mask, vac-lock or breast boards depending on the site.

Do inform the medical team, if you have any metal implants in your body like titanium dental implant, pedicle screws or medical devices such as cochlear implant and pacemaker, so that these can be taken into account during imaging and when developing the plan. A careful treatment plan is designed to ensure you are receiving the right radiation dose.

When the set-up position is ascertained by the radiographer, stay still while remaining relaxed. After the initial set-up, each session is divided into two phases, imaging and treatment. In the imaging stage, the radiographer will confirm the set-up position is correct through the auto-match image registration feature. After that, the treatment begins. With its improved gantry speed and multi-leaf collimator, the prescribed radiation dose can be delivered in a matter of minutes.

After treatment, you can usually go home on the same day. You would have weekly reviews with the oncologist during the entire course of treatment to ensure you are coping well with the treatment and any side-effects (if any). It could take days, weeks or months to notice any change in the cancer. The nurse would arrange for follow-up appointments, so that the doctor is able to monitor on your progress and response to treatment.