Dr. Walter Sahijdak is a radiation oncologist at Trinity Health Livingston. He recently spoke with The Livingston Post to discuss all things to do with radiation therapy – the variety of treatments, side effects, what to consider, and how every step of the way is a team-based approach.
Q: Can you explain the different types of radiation therapy and how they are used in treating cancer?
Dr. Sahijdak: Radiation therapy is a key component in cancer treatment and has been used for more than a century. It primarily involves two methods: external beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy.
- External Beam Radiation Therapy: This is the most common form of radiation therapy. It uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to target tumors from outside the body. Patients typically receive this treatment in an outpatient setting, where the radiation beams are precisely aimed at the tumor, avoiding other surrounding healthy tissues and organs.
- Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): This involves placing a radioactive source inside or very close to the tumor. It delivers radiation directly to the cancer cells, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Brachytherapy is often used for prostate cancer and gynecological cancers.
Q: What factors determine whether radiation therapy is the best treatment option for a patient?
Dr. Sahijdak: The decision for the best overall care for each patient is based on a comprehensive evaluation by a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. This collaborative, team-based approach ensures all aspects of each patient’s unique situation are considered. Factors influencing the decision include the type and stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. The goal is to develop a personalized treatment plan to provide the best possible outcome.
Q: What does a typical radiation therapy treatment look like?
Dr. Sahijdak: Patients are usually treated in an outpatient setting, with each session lasting approximately 15 minutes. Patients lie on a treatment table while the radiation is administered by certified radiation therapists. The process is non-invasive, and patients are able to resume all daily activities after the session.
Q: What are the most common side effects of radiation therapy, and how can they be managed?
Dr. Sahijdak: Radiation side effects vary depending on the treatment area and the type of cancer the patient has. Managing side effects involve proactive care, including medications, dietary adjustments, and supportive therapies. Our radiation therapists see patients every day along with a weekly doctor visit to address side effects early and adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Q: What should patients expect in terms of recovery and follow-up care after completing radiation therapy?
Dr. Sahijdak: Upon completion, patients generally continue with follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and assess the treatment’s effectiveness. Follow-up care is crucial for evaluating overall health and managing any long-term effects of the treatment.
Q: What are the potential benefits of radiation therapy compared to other treatment options for prostate cancer, specifically?
Dr. Sahijdak: When it comes to prostate cancer, radiation therapy is an alternative to removing the prostate surgically and it has the same level of effectiveness. The side effects of treatment are different than surgery, and shared decision-making between the patient and their physician team is essential to choose the best treatment based on individual circumstances.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like patients to know?
Dr. Sahijdak: At Trinity Health Livingston, we take a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment that involves a team of specialists, including doctors, nurses, radiation therapists, dieticians, and social workers. This collaborative, customized approach ensures patients receive the most effective and appropriate care for their specific needs.
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