Treatments - Oncology

Radiotherapy

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Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a crucial component of cancer treatment. It utilises high-energy radiation beams to target and destroy cancer cells while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This therapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the type and location of the cancer. By employing advanced technologies and comprehensive supportive care measures, radiation oncologists strive to deliver safe, effective, and patient-centred radiotherapy treatment that improves outcomes and enhances your quality of life while undergoing cancer treatment.

At a Glance

Treatment time:

15 minutes per session

Anaesthetic:

None

Return to work:

When comfortable

Duration:

Between 1 and 4 weeks

Final results:

Reduced risk of cancer recurrence

About This Treatment

External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is the most common form of radiotherapy.

It involves directing radiation beams from a machine outside the body towards the tumour site. During treatment, you’ll lie on a treatment table, while a linear accelerator or other specialised equipment delivers precise doses of radiation to the tumour. Our radiation therapist carefully positions you and aligns the radiation beams to target the tumour while sparing nearby healthy tissues as much as possible.

Regardless of the delivery method, the goal of radiotherapy is to damage the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying and ultimately causing their death. Radiation damages the DNA through the creation of free radicals, which disrupt the cell’s ability to divide and grow. Cancer cells are generally less capable of repairing this damage compared to normal cells, making them more susceptible to radiation-induced cell death.

Personalised treatment plans are essential in radiotherapy to optimise treatment efficacy while minimising side effects. Before starting treatment, you’ll undergo a thorough evaluation, including imaging scans, such as CT or MRI, to precisely delineate the tumour and surrounding anatomy. This information is used to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific cancer type, stage, and location.

The radiation oncologist, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, determines the appropriate radiation dose, treatment technique, and duration based on your unique characteristics and treatment goals. Factors such as tumour size, location, proximity to critical organs, and your overall health and tolerance to treatment are carefully considered.

One of the critical aspects of personalised radiotherapy treatment plans is the use of advanced technologies to deliver radiation with precision and accuracy. Techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) allow for highly targeted delivery of radiation beams, minimising exposure to healthy tissues and reducing the risk of side effects.

IMRT delivers radiation beams of varying intensities to conform to the shape of the tumour, allowing for precise dose modulation and sparing of surrounding normal tissues. IGRT uses imaging techniques such as CT or MRI scans to verify the position of the tumour immediately before treatment delivery, ensuring accurate targeting. SBRT delivers high doses of radiation to the tumour in a small number of treatment sessions, typically completed over a shorter treatment course.

The importance of personalised treatment plans in radiotherapy extends beyond treatment delivery to include comprehensive supportive care and monitoring throughout the treatment process. Radiation oncologists work closely with other members of the healthcare team, including radiation therapists, nurses, physicists, and dietitians, to address your unique needs. Supportive care measures may include managing treatment-related side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, nausea, or difficulty swallowing, through medications, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

You’ll receive ongoing monitoring and assessment of their response to treatment, with regular follow-up visits to evaluate treatment efficacy and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Furthermore, personalised treatment plans in radiotherapy consider the potential long-term effects of treatment on your quality of life and overall well-being. Radiation oncologists carefully balance the benefits of treatment in controlling or eradicating the cancer with the potential risks of long-term side effects, such as radiation-induced fibrosis, scarring, or damage to nearby organs.

Treatment Image

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialists providing radiotherapy at BBG possess advanced qualifications in radiation oncology, often with specialised training in breast cancer treatment. We have extensive expertise in radiation therapy techniques, including IMRT, IGRT, and SBRT, ensuring precise and effective treatment tailored to each patient’s unique needs and tumour characteristics.

Suitable candidates for radiotherapy at BBG include individuals diagnosed with various types and stages of cancer, particularly those with localised tumours or who require adjuvant therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. Patients’ overall health, tumour characteristics, and treatment goals are carefully assessed to determine candidacy for radiotherapy.

Breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy at BBG may experience temporary side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, breast tenderness, and mild to moderate discomfort in the treated area. Less common side effects may include changes in skin pigmentation, swelling, or uncommon instances of long-term tissue fibrosis.

The length of radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer patients at BBG typically ranges from three to six weeks, with daily sessions scheduled Monday through Friday. Treatment duration may vary based on factors such as tumour stage, location, and the specific radiation therapy technique used.

How much does Radiotherapy cost at Birmingham Breast Group?

As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.

Initial consultation

please enquire

All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.

Surgery costs from

based on consultation

Our personalised treatment plans are meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.

Radiotherapy

Our Specialist Team

Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.

View Our Full Team

BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS

Naren Basu

Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Naren

BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD

Daniel Henderson

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Daniel

MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)

Ms Salena Bains

Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Salena

Consultant Clinical oncologist

Dr James Good

PhD, FRCR

Meet James

BSc, PhD, FRCP

Professor Daniel Rea

Professor of Medical Oncology

Meet Daniel

MRCP, FRCR

Dr Sara Meade

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Sara

BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR

Dr Faisal Majid

Consultant Radiologist

Meet Faisal

MSc, PhD, FRCPath

Dr Abeer Shaaban

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Abeer

Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath

Dr Rachna Awasthi

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Rachna

 

Dawn Larkin

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Dawn

 

Ruth Tracey

Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant

Meet Ruth

 

Dr Nadia Alishah

Job Title Here

Meet Nadia

Qualifications Here

Gill Farrington

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Gill
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
View More Reviews

Our Locations

Priory Hospital Edgbaston Image

Priory Hospital Edgbaston

Priory Road, Edgbaston, B5 7UG

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Spire Parkway Solihull Image

Spire Parkway Solihull

1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, B91 2PP

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Spire Little Aston Image

Spire Little Aston

Little Aston Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3UP

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The Harborne Hospital Image

The Harborne Hospital

Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2FQ

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Accreditations