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5 Fraction Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

5-fraction SBRT means giving radiation treatment to treat cancer over five days. Treatments are given on alternating days. It's a type of treatment where the radiation is precisely aimed at the cancer to destroy it while minimizing harm to nearby healthy tissue. This is in contrast to conventional radiation treatments which take 7 to 9 weeks. This approach is often used for certain types of cancer, like prostate cancer, to help get rid of the cancer cells effectively. 

Who qualifies

Treatment for Low and Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer

People with localized prostate cancer who are deemed suitable candidates by their healthcare provider may qualify for 5-fraction stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). This typically includes individuals with low to intermediate-risk prostate cancer who are not eligible for surgery or prefer non-invasive treatment options. However, eligibility criteria can vary based on factors such as tumor size, urinary function, size of prostate, and overall health, so it's essential to consult with a radiation oncologist to determine suitability for this treatment approach.

Step-by-step

What are the steps for SBRT

01
Consultation
You'll meet with your healthcare team, including a radiation oncologist, to discuss the treatment plan. They'll review your medical history, conduct necessary tests, and determine if SBRT is suitable for you.
02
Fiducial Marker and Rectal Spacing
Your urologist will place 4 permanent metal seeds the size of rice grain in the prostate to allow for accurate and precision setup on the day of your radiation treatments. SpaceOAR or Barrigel is placed between prostate and rectum to help reduce rare but potential damage to the rectum from the high dose or radiation.
03
Simulation
During simulation, you'll lie on a treatment table while a CT scan is performed to precisely map out the location of the prostate and surrounding organs. This helps the medical team plan where to aim the radiation.
04
5 Fraction Radiation Treatments
Before each SBRT session, you may need to follow specific instructions for bladder and rectal preparation. This ensures the accuracy of treatment delivery and sparing of radiation to healthy tissue. You'll attend five sessions, typically scheduled on consecutive weekdays. Each session is relatively short, usually lasting less than an hour. You'll lie still on the treatment table while the radiation is delivered precisely to the targeted area.
05
Followup
Throughout the treatment course, your medical team will monitor your progress and manage any side effects you may experience. They'll also conduct follow-up appointments after treatment to monitor for late side effects and treatment outcome.