Radiation Oncology

Patient Initial Instructions

CT/Simulation:

The first procedure that you will undergo in our department is called CT/Simulation.  It will take approximately 1 hour and during this procedure you will be placed in your treatment position, scans will be performed, and marks may be applied to your skin.  In most cases, clear tape will be placed over the marks to help you maintain them.  Also, molds may be made to help keep you in the same position for treatment.

Treatment:

Once simulation is completed, the planning process may take up to 5 business days before you can start your treatment.  If you didn’t get an appointment time for treatment at the time of simulation, the therapist who will be delivering your treatment will call you to schedule the appointments.  The therapist will work with you to provide the best possible appointment time available.  The amount of time spent for your treatment will depend on the anatomical site of treatment and complexity of the procedure.  You will be seen by the Radiation Oncologist and Registered Nurse once weekly, so please plan to spend additional time in the department for this visit.  You may need to have a complete blood count (CBC) weekly while you are being treated.

Precautions during Treatment:

1. Ensure you get plenty of rest during your treatments.  You may continue your current exercise program as long as you do not over exert yourself, and the activity does not cause you to lose your skin markings.

2. Maintain a balanced diet.  Please inform our staff, if you experience any nutritional issues i.e. weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.  If you continue to have difficulties, notify our staff so a dietician consultation can be made for you.

3. Do not remove any marks placed on your skin.  Avoid activities which may cause the marks to fade, such as, swimming, Jacuzzi and outdoor activities. Do not reinforce the marks yourself, or have a family member reinforce unless given specific instructions by the therapists.  Avoid tight clothing, which may rub off or smear the skin marks.

4. Showers are recommended for personal hygiene.  Baths will cause the marks to fade. Do not use harsh soaps, lotions, powders or perfumes in the treatment area.  Mild soap can be used over the marks but do not scrub the area.  Lotions or ointments that are prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist can be used after treatment and washed off before treatment to avoid irritating the treatment area.

5. If you shave within the treatment area, you must use an electric razor.

6. Protect the treatment area from outside elements.  Avoid sun exposure and extreme temperatures to the area.  Do not apply a heating pad or ice pack to the treatment area.

7. Inform the Radiation Oncologist of all medications you are taking.

Cancer information booklets are available in the waiting room and exam rooms and copies can be made at your request.