What is fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy?
Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FFRT) is an irradiation technique. The treatment is performed in several sessions, depending on each patient.
Stereotactic radiotherapy is a radiotherapy technique that allows a large dose of radiation to be administered to the affected area. A guide is used to localize the tumor and the organs at risk; adjacent tissues thus receive a lower dose.
Why is it performed?
Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy is a very useful tool for the treatment of malignant cranial lesions in pediatric patients, since it makes it possible to reduce the amount of radiation received by the patient and thus prevent toxicity from significantly affecting the cognitive functions of the patients.
It is especially beneficial for tumors of the head and neck, lung, spine, prostate, liver and abdomen.
FNRT is beneficial for different tumors, such as head and neck tumors.
What does it consist of?
To administer this radiotherapy treatment, the same amount of radiation, or even more, than conventional radiosurgery is applied. This radiation is applied in small doses distributed in several daily treatments, which is called fractionated dose. This fractionated dose favors the reappearance of healthy tissue close to the lesion, especially in critical structures such as the brain stem or the optic pathways.
The intensity of the irradiation beam in each field is variable, as it is adapted to the anatomical characteristics of the tumor and normal structures.
Preparation for fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy
The radiation oncologist will perform a CT scan or MRI, which will allow him/her to know and determine the specific area to be treated.
There are some guidelines to follow the day before and the day of the procedure, such as wearing comfortable clothes, no jewelry, no glasses, etc. All of these will be clearly explained by your specialist.
Post-procedure care
A dose per fraction is applied that cannot produce lesions in healthy tissues, which avoids the appearance of sequelae or complications.
It is not a painful procedure so long periods of hospitalization or rehabilitation are avoided. During the treatment the patient is awake and can recover the routine within a few hours of its realization.
Alternatives to this treatment
An alternative to this treatment is stereotactic radiosurgery, which is based on a single dose of ionizing radiation on an anatomical and well-defined lesion or structure, with the aim of destroying it or altering its function, without affecting nearby structures. It is extremely precise and is mainly used to treat different brain diseases.