The Different Types of Radiation Therapy: Which One Is Right for You?

Medically reviewed by Dr Johann Tang, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist

Radiation therapy is one of the many treatment options in oncology, used to target and destroy cancer cells. Depending on the type and location of the tumour, different types of radiation therapy are available, each with its own advantages. If you or a loved one is considering radiation therapy, it’s essential to understand the various options to determine which one best suits your needs. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of radiation therapy.

1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is the most commonly used form of radiation therapy. It involves directing high-energy radiation beams from outside the body to specifically target the tumour. This method is non-invasive and typically used for tumours located in areas that can be easily accessed from the outer region, such as the breast, prostate, or brain.

EBRT uses advanced imaging techniques to precisely aim radiation at the tumour while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Depending on the type of cancer and its location, treatment schedules may vary, but most patients undergo a series of sessions over several weeks. Because it is external, there is no need for surgery or an incision, making it a relatively straightforward option for many patients.

EBRT is usually the workhorse of radiation treatment and is used in all forms of radiation treatment.

2. Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy where radioactive sources are placed directly inside or very close to the tumour. Unlike EBRT, which involves external radiation, brachytherapy delivers a highly localised dose of radiation, allowing it to target the tumour with great precision while sparing nearby healthy tissues.

This type of radiation therapy is commonly used for cancers of the prostate, cervix, and some types of breast cancer. The procedure involves placing small radioactive seeds or wires into or near the tumour through a catheter or applicator. Since the radiation is delivered from within, brachytherapy can provide higher radiation doses over a shorter period, often with fewer treatment sessions compared to EBRT.

Brachytherapy is commonly used for gynae cancers, prostate cancers and breast cancer treatments.

3. Proton Therapy

Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation therapy that uses protons, rather than traditional X-rays, to target cancer cells. The advantage of proton therapy lies in the precision with which it delivers radiation. Protons have mass and charge, and they can be controlled to stop at a very specific depth, reducing the risk of damaging surrounding healthy tissue. 

Compared to conventional X-ray radiation, proton therapy offers a more targeted approach, which can be particularly beneficial for pediatric patients or tumours located in sensitive areas, such as the brain, spine, or eye. While proton therapy is highly effective, it is not available everywhere due to the complexity and cost of the technology. Still, in certain cases, it may be the preferred type of radiation therapy, especially for tumours that cannot be treated using other methods.

Proton therapy is commonly used for head and neck cancers, paediatric cancers, sarcoma and brain cancers.

4. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) are two highly focused types of radiation therapy designed for small, well-defined tumours. Both techniques deliver high doses of radiation in a few sessions, offering an efficient treatment option for patients with tumours located in the brain (SRS) or other parts of the body (SBRT), such as those in the lungs, liver, or spine. SRS delivers radiation in a single session. While SBRT delivers radiation in a small number of sessions, usually around three to five. 

Both SRS and SBRT offer the advantage of treating tumours with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue due to their precision and high-dose delivery.

SRS is mainly used for brain metastasis and for brain cancers. 

SBRT is mainly used for bone metastasis, liver metastasis, lung metastasis or any lymph node metastasis.

With various options available, each offering unique benefits depending on the tumour’s size, location, and type, it’s important to discuss your individual case with an experienced cancer specialist. A tailored approach ensures that you receive the most effective treatment for your specific needs, maximising your chances of success.

If you or a loved one are considering radiation therapy, consult with Dr. Johann Tang, a seasoned radiation oncologist with over 20 years of experience in cancer treatment. With his extensive expertise and access to the latest technology, Dr. Tang offers personalised care to guide you through your treatment options.

Contact Dr. Tang’s clinic today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards effective cancer treatment in Singapore.