Here are some words often used in radiation therapy, and their definitions:
Imaging: These tests produce pictures that show the cancer in your body. Common imaging tests include X-rays, CT, MRI, and PET scans.
The tests are done while you are lying in the same position you will be in for radiation treatment. This helps your team plan your treatments so they target the cancer.
Immobilization: During your radiation therapy session, it’s important for your body to stay still. Your therapists will work with you at your first appointment to find the right body position to stay still for treatment.
Immobilization device: This can be a cushion, cradle, or mold that your therapist picks to fit your body. The device helps to make sure your body stays still for treatment.
It may be custom made or standard size and shape.
IV catheter: This is a very narrow tube that your care team will insert in a vein. It is used to deliver a dye and any other fluids into your bloodstream.
IV contrast: This is the special dye that highlights parts of your body on imaging scans. The contrast is injected into your bloodstream and stays there temporarily.
Linear accelerator: Your care team uses this machine to deliver beams of radiation therapy. The machine delivers doses of radiation to the cancer target.
Your team can shape the radiation beams to fit the size and shape of the cancer. That lowers damage to your nearby healthy body tissue.
Positioning: Before you start treatment, you will have an appointment to help you prepare. Your therapist will help you lie down comfortably on the treatment table.
The therapist measures your exact placement. That helps to place you in a comfortable position when you return for your upcoming treatments.
Simulation: This visit is a “test run” that will help you know what to expect during treatment. You will find the best position for your body to lie on the treatment table. This visit happens after you have met your radiation cancer doctor.
During this visit, your therapists will prepare your immobilization device. They will also take imaging pictures of the cancer site.
X-rays: This is a type of imaging test that uses very small doses of radiation to make pictures of the body’s insides. At higher doses, X-rays can also be used for cancer treatment.
Current as of: 6/2019
Stanford Health Education, 2019