How Radiation Therapy Is Used To Treat Lung Cancer

Medically reviewed by Dr Johann Tang, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist

Radiation therapy (radiotherapy) is one of the most commonly used treatment methods for various types of cancer, including lung cancer. Patients undergoing the procedure will be exposed to high-energy X-rays designed to eradicate cancer cells or keep them from growing.

The radiation may come from an external medical device or radioactive materials implanted inside the patient’s body, in or near the tumour (brachytherapy). Although, the former is generally more common. It can cause the cancer cells to stop dividing or die over a period of days or weeks.

Learn More: Why Radiation Therapy Is Becoming An Increasingly Common Cancer Treatment Procedure

How Radiation Therapy Is Used To Treat Lung Cancer

Radiation therapy may be used in several different ways for lung cancer treatment. Commonly, an oncologist may combine radiation therapy with other treatment methods to ensure efficacy. For instance, it can be performed before surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. It can also relieve symptoms caused by lung cancer, such as bleeding, blockage of the airways by the tumour, and pain.

Radiation therapy may even be used as the primary treatment for lung cancer. That is usually the case for patients who may not be healthy enough to undergo surgery or whose cancer cells have spread too far for surgery to be effective. Patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) may also undergo radiotherapy to lower the risk of cancer cells spreading from the lungs to the brain, which is common in those with SCLC.

Types Of Radiotherapy Used To Treat Lung Cancer

A lung specialist, known as a pulmonologist, will work with the radiation oncologist and surgeon to devise a personalised lung cancer radiotherapy treatment plan for the patient. The chosen treatment method will depend on several factors, including:

• The patient’s age, health status, and medical history
• The type of lung cancer
• Tumour size and location
• Whether the patient has undergone previous radiation treatment for cancer

Generally, radiation therapy for lung cancer is delivered externally. The patient will be requested to lie on a linear accelerator table, where a machine will deliver precise beams of radiation targeting the cancer cells in the lungs. This procedure is called external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). There are various EBRT methods that may be used for lung cancer, and an oncology team will assess the patient to determine the most suitable option.

1. Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

IMRT utilises multiple radiation beams that conform to the tumour’s shape. The radiation oncologist can adjust the beam intensity to deliver radiation to the targeted area.

2. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)

IGRT, which utilises 3-D images and IMRT radiation to detect and treat cancerous tumours, is often used in situations where the tumour can move slightly throughout treatment, as is the case with lung cancer, where the tumour can shift due to breathing. IGRT can ensure that the radiation is delivered precisely during each treatment session.

3. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

SBRT uses images from CT scans to deliver a high radiation dose with precision to eradicate cancer cells, thus limiting damage to surrounding tissue. This form of radiation therapy is usually recommended to treat early-stage lung cancer when the patient cannot safely undergo surgery.

4. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

SRS uses a high radiation dose to eradicate lung cancer tumours that have spread to the central nervous system – the brain or spinal cord.

5. 3-D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3-D CRT)

3-D CRT utilises computer software to accurately map the tumour’s location, allowing the radiation beams to conform to its shape. They can then be aimed from different directions while minimising damage to surrounding tissue.

6. Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy

Hypofractionated radiation therapy delivers a higher radiation dose in each session over a shorter period of time than standard radiation therapy, making it possible for patients to complete their radiotherapy more quickly.

7. Brachytherapy

For patients with early-stage lung cancer who are not suitable for EBRT or surgery, their oncologist may recommend brachytherapy as an alternative treatment method. An implant containing sealed radioactive material is placed directly into or near the tumour to eradicate the cancerous cells within the lungs.

Side Effects Of Radiation Therapy

Similar to other cancer treatments, patients may experience side effects from radiation therapy. These side effects may vary for different patients. They commonly include:

• Cough
• Fatigue or weakness
• Mild skin reactions
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat or painful swallowing

Patients concerned with the long-term effects of radiation therapy can speak to our radiation oncologist, Dr Johann Tang, about what to expect, especially if it is administered alongside other treatments. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Dr Tang is committed to providing personalised treatment for each individual, offering medical care based on proven clinical studies. Contact us today to learn more about our services, and feel free to send us any enquiries you may have about our radiotherapy costs in Singapore.