Radiotherapy uses targeted, high-powered X-rays to destroy cancer cells and stop cancers from spreading.
Our expert team includes:
- Radiation therapists
- Consultant radiation oncologists
- Physicists
- Dieticians
- Physiotherapists
The team regularly work with dieticians, physiotherapists and social workers at Hermitage Clinic as your treatment requires.
Who we treat
The aim of radiotherapy depends on the patient. We often use radiotherapy with the intent to cure a patient of cancer or to lower the risk of cancer coming back.
We also treat palliative care patients to help minimise uncomfortable side effects caused by cancer.
Treatment
We use CyberKnife, which is exclusively available in Ireland at Hermitage Clinic. We also use External Beam Radiotherapy. We have 2 Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machines to deliver this treatment. The LINAC uses a high dose of radiation to kill cancer cells.
The goal of treatment is to cause as much damage as possible to cancer cells and as little damage as possible to healthy cells.
Our Radiotherapy department offers a full range of radiotherapy treatments including:
- radical (curative intent)
- palliative (to relieve side effects of cancer)
- stereotactic (to deliver high doses of radiation)
- Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (to deliver precise radiation to tumours)
- treatment for skin cancers
What to expect
Radiotherapy can be given in one treatment or daily over a number of weeks. The length of your treatment will depend on your individual condition. Your consultant will advise you of your treatment schedule.
On your first visit, you'll have a CT scan. This will allow our experts to plan your radiotherapy treatment.
Visit our Radiology page for more information
After your scan, your radiation therapist will ask for your permission to place permanent, freckle-sized ink marks on your skin. They will then use these marks during your treatment to position the lasers. 3 marks are usually enough.
Your consultant will see you regularly during your radiotherapy treatment to monitor your progress and discuss any side effects.
Most radiotherapy side effects are temporary and may last a few months after you've completed treatment.
Radiotherapy will only cause hair loss in the area of the body being treated. If you lose hair anywhere on the body, it should start to grow back a few weeks after your treatment ends.
Your consultant radiation oncologist will discuss all possible side effects ahead of your treatment. Always let your consultant know if you have any questions or concerns at any stage of the process.
You might find that you feel tired while you're having radiotherapy. You're also likely to feel dehydrated and your treatment area will be more sensitive to the sun.
As such, we suggest you avoid:
- sitting in the sun for long periods of time
- exposing the treatment area to the sun or extreme temperatures
- smoking or drinking alcohol as much as possible
Insurance
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, contact your health insurance provider before your visit.
Visit our Health insurance and self-pay page for more information.
Payment
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay on the day of your visit.
You might be able to claim fees on your insurance.
If you need to submit an insurance excess or pay inpatient fees after a stay at the Hermitage Clinic, you can pay your bill online.
