Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses targeted, high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Like surgery, radiation therapy is a local therapy, meaning it affects cancer cells only in the treated area.

Some women with Stage I, II, or III uterine cancer will receive both radiation therapy and surgery. Radiation therapy may be administered before surgery in order to shrink the tumor, or after surgery to destroy any cancer cells that remain in the area. Also, some providers may suggest radiation treatments for the small number of women who cannot have surgery.

There are two types of radiation therapy used to treat uterine cancer. They include external radiation therapy, in which a large machine outside the body is used to aim radiation at the tumor area. External radiation is usually administered on an outpatient basis 5 days a week for several weeks. This schedule helps protect healthy cells and tissues by distributing the total dose of radiation. No radioactive materials are put into the body during external radiation therapy.

In internal radiation therapy, tiny tubes containing a radioactive substance are inserted through the vagina and left in place for a few days. Hospitalization is required for internal radiation therapy, and often visitation is limited to protect visitors from radiation exposure. Once the implant is removed, the woman has no radioactivity in her body.

Some patients need both external and internal radiation therapies. The side effects depend mainly on the amount of radiation given and the part of your body that is treated. Radiation therapy to your abdomen and pelvis may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloody stools. Also, your skin in the treated area may become red, dry, and tender. Although the side effects can be uncomfortable, your provider can usually treat or control them. These side effects gradually go away after treatment ends.