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I have a meeting Monday with my radiation oncologist to discuss my pending adjuvant radiation treatment. My wife and I are not sure of the exact process. In our prior meeting, he indicated that they would make a body mold to that I will be put in each day. He also said they would inplant some markers in the prostate bed to ensure the accuracy of the radiation treatment.
Our question is basically when we go in on Monday and he says they want to start making the mold and implanting the markers, how long after this will the actual radiation start?
Also, any information on the entire radiation treatment process would be greatly appreciated.
Wendell,
I went through a similar process nearly two years ago. In my case the actual radiation started within a few days of the placement of markers.
The oncologists will generate a treatment plan and I strongly encourage you to get involved in that process. First issue is how big an area (within you) will be irradiated. A larger area will encompass a greater number of lymph nodes, but can have greater side effects. It's a trade off. Also, how much total radiation will you be receiving? More radiation can slightly increase the likelihood of a cure but also lead to more side effects.
Your pathology report as well as your current PSA level (if any) figure into these decisions. I just encourage you to participate. Ask about the tradeoffs and get a feel for the decision process that your oncologist is following. He should convince you that his judgements are in line with your priorities. If not, speak up.
Roughly speaking. you'll be getting treatments once a day for 6 or 7 weeks, weekdays only. For just a few minutes each time. I didn't have a body mold, just a mold for the feet and legs. To ensure a proper placement each time I came. There are laser beams in the radiation room that will line up with the markers on your body, again for exact placement.
It sure has worked out well for me; good luck and feel free to email me with any specific questions or concerns.
Also expect to drink a half liter of water prior to treatment. This distends the bladder to position the tissues roughly the same each day. You will fall into a routine and it will be over before you know it. Expect some urinary and bowel issues after two weeks. I had diarrhea several times a day toward the end. Ask for a diet plan to minimize discomfort. I was on a low fiber diet (BRAT- bananas, rice, applesauce, tea). Expect fatigue. Expect some depression. If the center has a clinical social worker, arrange for visits. After the treatments are over, you will feel depressed again because you will lose that daily support group that you counted on for all those weeks, so don't neglect your mental health.
