Radiotherapy for Brain Tumors: How It Works & What to Expect

More than half of cancer patients undergo radiation therapy at some point in their treatment journey. But what exactly is radiotherapy, and how does it work for brain tumours? Is it painful? 

In this blog, we’ll answer all the questions that your mind might have. If you or a loved one is facing a brain tumor and considering radiation therapy, consult our expert Oncologists in Kolkata at CMRI Hospital for the best treatment and personalized care. 

What is radiotherapy?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. While it also affects healthy cells, they can repair themselves, unlike cancer cells. This treatment helps shrink both primary and metastatic tumours. Radiation therapy doesn’t work instantly. It takes days or weeks for cancer cells to start dying. Even after treatment ends, they continue to break down for weeks or months.

A doctor who specialises in radiation treatment is called a radiation oncologist. Radiation therapy is used in different ways, such as:

• After surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells
• As the main treatment for certain cancers
• To relieve symptoms caused by tumours

How does radiation therapy work for brain tumours

Radiation therapy is used to treat brain tumours. In which high-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells while preventing healthy cells. To find the exact location, sizes and complexity of cancer, your doctor might recommend a few tests, like an MRI or CT scan. After that, a machine sends precise radiation beams to the tumour to stop it from growing or spreading.

Treatment takes place over several sessions, usually spread out over weeks. Each session lasts only a few minutes and is completely painless. Like other treatments, this process is also associated with some side effects, such as fatigue, headaches, nausea, or hair loss. These symptoms may vary from person to person.

Types of Radiotherapy for Brain Tumors

There are different types of radiotherapy for brain tumours. Your doctor might recommend the best option based on your tumour size, type, and location. Each method works differently, but their aim is to stop cancer cells from growing and spreading.

External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

This is the most common type of radiotherapy often used for brain tumours. In which a machine directs high-energy rays at the tumour from outside the body. It is a painless procedure and is done in multiple sessions.

Whole Brain Radiation Therapy (WBRT)

It is the most effective radiation therapy method for brain metastases, whole brain radiotherapy. It involves delivering radiation to the entire brain, including healthy tissue. While effective, it can have short- and long-term side effects.

SRS:

SRS is a precise radiation therapy, often called "knifeless" surgery. It targets cancer cells while protecting healthy brain tissue.

Types of SRS:

• Linear Accelerator (LINAC): Uses high-energy X-rays to treat tumours with great accuracy.
• Cobalt-60 Therapy: Uses gamma radiation from a cobalt isotope. Patients receive local anaesthesia during treatment.

What happens during the radiotherapy procedure?

• Consultation & Planning: A radiation oncologist will assess your tumour and discuss the best approach.
• Imaging Tests: CT or MRI scans help doctors create a precise treatment plan.
• Mask Fitting (For Brain Radiotherapy): A custom mask is made to keep your head still during treatment.
• Treatment session: During your session, you will lie on a table while a machine delivers radiation to the tumour. The treatment is painless. It usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes to complete the process.
• Monitoring: Your medical team will closely monitor your progress and make any adjustments if needed.

What to expect after radiotherapy treatment?

Most people who receive radiation therapy treatment experience side effects. This happens when healthy cells are exposed to the radiation used to kill cancer cells. Fatigue is the most common side effect of radiation therapy. Other side effects depend on the type of cancer you have and where the tumour is located in your body.

How to manage side effects?

• Drink lots of water.
• Take rest as much as possible.
• Eat a healthy diet; include proteins and vitamins to maintain strength.
• Use gentle skincare products if you have skin irritation.
• Take breaks during work or activities if you feel tired.

“Radiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for brain tumours. With proper care and support, most patients can manage side effects well and improve their quality of life. Always talk to your doctor if you have any concerns," said Dr Jyotirup Goswami, an experienced radiation oncologist practising at CK Birla Hospitals (CMRI), Kolkata.

Final Thought

Like other procedures, radiotherapy is also one of the most effective treatments for brain tumours. It is used to shrink tumours, relieve symptoms, and improve survival rates. While the journey may feel overwhelming, knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control.

FAQs

Is radiotherapy painful?

No, radiotherapy itself is painless. Most people who receive radiation therapy treatment experience side effects.

How long does recovery take after radiotherapy?

Recovery time can vary from person to person. Some feel better in weeks, while others may take months.

What is the difference between radiotherapy and chemotherapy?

Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or slow cancer cells.

Is radiotherapy safe?

Yes, it is generally safe when given correctly.

When is radiotherapy used?

It treats cancer, shrinks tumours before surgery, relieves symptoms, or prevents cancer from returning.