Radiation Oncology

Radiation Oncology: Target the Tumor, Spare the Patient

The goal of modern radiation therapy is simple but demanding: deliver a lethal dose of radiation to the cancer while leaving the surrounding healthy organs untouched. At Veda Hospitals, we achieve this through a combination of elite clinical expertise and world-class engineering.

Our Technology: The Veda Advantage

1. Halcyon™ Radiotherapy (The Speed of Light)

Veda Hospitals is proud to be a pioneer in the region by offering the Varian Halcyon™ system. This isn’t just a machine; it’s a leap forward in patient comfort.

• Organ Preservation: Highly effective for Cervical, Prostate, and Breast cancers, allowing us to deliver high doses locally while protecting the bladder, rectum, and skin.
• Outpatient Convenience: Most Gamma-Med procedures are “High Dose Rate,” meaning the treatment takes only a few minutes, and you can usually go home the same day.
• MRI-Compatible: We use advanced applicators that allow for MRI-based planning, giving our doctors a crystal-clear view of the tumor for better outcomes.

Cancers Frequently Treated with Radiation

Our team uses a “site-specific” approach, ensuring the most effective protocol for your specific diagnosis:

• Head & Neck: Using Halcyon’s rapid arc technology to protect salivary glands and taste buds.
• Gastrointestinal: Precise targeting of oesophagal and rectal tumors.
• Gynaecological: A combination of Halcyon (external) and Gamma-Med (internal) for comprehensive cervical and uterine care.
• Urological: Targeted treatment for prostate cancer with minimal impact on urinary function.

Your Radiation Care Team

Radiation is a team sport. At Veda, your journey is managed by:

1. Radiation Oncologists: Who design your clinical “prescription.”
2. Medical Physicists: Who calculate the exact $X$-ray dose and trajectory.
3. Radiation Therapists: The experts who operate the Halcyon and ensure you are comfortable.
4. Onco-Nurses: Who help manage any skin or fatigue-related side effects.

Patient FAQ

Is radiation therapy painful? No. You will not feel the radiation during the treatment. It is very similar to getting a routine X-ray, only it lasts a few minutes longer.

Will I be “radioactive” after Halcyon treatment? No. External radiation from the Halcyon does not stay in your body. You are perfectly safe to be around family, children, and pets immediately after your session.

How many sessions will I need? This varies. Some treatments require only 1 to 5 sessions (SBRT), while others may require daily sessions for 5 to 7 weeks. Your oncologist will provide a personalized schedule during your consultation.