External Beam Therapy
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
External Beam Therapy (EBT) is a non-invasive cancer treatment technique that uses high-energy radiation beams to target and destroy cancer cells. Unlike internal radiation therapies that involve placing radioactive materials inside the body, EBT uses a machine called a linear accelerator to direct radiation from outside the body toward the cancerous area. The aim is to deliver a precise dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to the surrounding healthy tissues.
EBT is highly versatile and can treat a variety of cancers, including prostate, breast, lung, head and neck, and even some brain cancers. Its advanced technology allows for customization according to each patient's needs, based on factors like the size, shape, and location of the tumor. There are different forms of EBT, such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT), and Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT), which utilize advanced imaging and treatment planning to increase accuracy and effectiveness.
The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning patients do not need to stay overnight in a hospital. This allows for greater convenience and minimizes disruption to the patient's daily life. With continuous advancements in radiation technology, EBT has become increasingly effective, offering better targeting of tumors while reducing side effects.
Procedure Duration
The duration of External Beam Therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer being treated, as well as the specific form of EBT used. Generally, treatment is spread out over several sessions, typically 5 days a week for 5-8 weeks. Each session lasts around 10-30 minutes, during which the patient lies still on a treatment table while the machine delivers radiation to the designated area.
Before the treatment begins, a planning session known as "simulation" is conducted. This involves imaging tests, like CT or MRI scans, to accurately map out the tumor's location and size. The planning phase ensures that the radiation beams are precisely targeted, minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissue. Once the simulation is complete, the treatment plan is reviewed and approved before the therapy sessions begin.
Post-treatment recovery varies per individual. While the radiation itself is painless and does not require anesthesia, side effects may develop over time, depending on the treated area. These may include skin changes, fatigue, or localized discomfort, which usually subside after the completion of the therapy. Patients are monitored regularly to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to manage any side effects or complications.
Benefits
- Precision Targeting: EBT allows for high levels of precision in targeting the tumor, sparing healthy tissues and reducing the risk of side effects.
- Non-invasive Procedure: As a non-surgical therapy, EBT does not require incisions or anesthesia, offering a pain-free treatment experience.
- Outpatient Convenience: Treatment sessions are typically short and performed on an outpatient basis, enabling patients to maintain their normal daily routines.
- Adaptability to Various Cancers: EBT is effective in treating many types of cancers, making it a versatile option for patients with different cancer types and stages.
- Customizable Treatment Plans: Each patient’s treatment is individually tailored, utilizing modern imaging technologies to enhance accuracy and optimize outcomes.
Potential Destinations for External Beam Therapy
- United States
Renowned for its advanced healthcare infrastructure, the U.S. has some of the world's leading cancer treatment centers offering state-of-the-art radiation therapy. Patients seeking EBT in the U.S. can benefit from cutting-edge technologies and a highly specialized medical workforce.
- Germany
Germany is widely recognized for its excellence in oncology and radiology. Medical tourists often choose Germany for its high standards of care, leading-edge equipment, and comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, ensuring quality outcomes in EBT.
- Japan
Japan is known for its innovations in radiation therapy, and its medical facilities offer a blend of traditional patient care and advanced technology. Many hospitals in Japan provide EBT with a focus on patient comfort and efficiency, making it a preferred destination for medical tourists.
- India
India has gained international acclaim for offering high-quality cancer treatments at affordable prices. Many hospitals are equipped with the latest radiation technologies, and medical professionals have extensive experience in administering EBT. English-speaking staff and support for international patients make the experience smoother.
- Turkey
Turkey's medical tourism sector is booming, with many hospitals offering world-class treatments at more competitive costs than Western countries. Advanced radiation therapy services, including EBT, are widely available in Turkey, attracting patients seeking quality care with shorter waiting times.
Risks & Considerations
- Skin Changes and Irritation
Patients may experience redness, dryness, or peeling of the skin in the treated area. These side effects are usually temporary but can cause discomfort during the course of treatment.
- Fatigue
Fatigue is a common side effect that tends to build up over time during the treatment process. It generally subsides a few weeks after the therapy is completed.
- Organ-Specific Side Effects
Depending on the location of the tumor, EBT can cause side effects specific to the treated organ. For instance, EBT for head and neck cancer may result in dry mouth or difficulty swallowing, while prostate cancer treatment can cause urinary symptoms.
- Radiation Exposure to Healthy Tissues
While EBT is designed to target tumors precisely, some surrounding healthy tissues may still be exposed to radiation, leading to potential long-term side effects depending on the area treated.
- Follow-up and Monitoring
Regular follow-up visits are necessary to assess the effectiveness of treatment and to monitor for any side effects or complications. These follow-ups may be long-term, especially for cancers that have a high risk of recurrence.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
Selecting a qualified doctor and hospital for External Beam Therapy is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. Look for a doctor who is board-certified in oncology or radiation oncology with experience in treating the specific type of cancer you have. A multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists, radiologists, and support staff is often a good indicator of comprehensive care.
When choosing a hospital, consider institutions with state-of-the-art technology and treatment facilities. Research whether they offer a range of EBT techniques (IMRT, SBRT, IGRT) and have access to advanced imaging for precise treatment planning. Additionally, ensure that the hospital has a support system for international patients, providing guidance through treatment planning, accommodations, and language services if needed.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
