Radiation is a central part of breast-conserving treatment and is often used after mastectomy — delivered to reduce the chance of the cancer returning, while protecting the heart and lungs.
For most women treated with breast-conserving surgery, radiation to the breast is a standard part of the cure — and modern planning has made it markedly safer for the heart and lungs than it once was.
Radiation is most commonly given after lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery), and after mastectomy in selected cases — for example where the tumour was large or lymph nodes were involved. It targets any microscopic disease left behind, lowering the risk of local recurrence.
Treatment is planned from a CT scan and delivered as a series of short, painless daily sessions over several weeks (shorter, “hypofractionated” schedules are appropriate for many patients). Techniques such as IMRT and image guidance shape the dose to the breast or chest wall.
Most patients continue their normal routine through treatment. Side effects are usually limited to skin changes and tiredness that build gradually and settle after treatment ends. Dr. Bhatnagar will explain your specific plan and what to watch for.
Bring your reports and scans for a consultation — he will tell you plainly whether radiation has a role.
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