Radiotherapy for breast cancer

Radiotherapy is one of the most important pillars of cancer treatment. Our state-of-the-art radiotherapy equipment and our experienced specialists offer you precise therapy with minimal impact on the surrounding tissue. The radiotherapy only takes a few minutes per session.

At our Breast Centre at the English Garden (BzaEG), we decide whether radiotherapy is appropriate for you based on a comprehensive diagnosis and taking your personal situation into consideration in our interdisciplinary tumour conference.

What is radiotherapy and how does it help against cancer?

Radiotherapy (also known as radiotherapy or irradiation) uses high-energy radiation to specifically destroy cancer cells. The radiation damages the DNA of the tumour cells to such an extent that they can no longer divide and die. Healthy tissue is largely spared.

When is radiotherapy used?

• To prevent the tumour from recurring in situ
• For tumour reduction before surgery
• For inoperable, e.g. very extensive and weeping tumours
• As an alternative if the patient cannot be operated on due to other illnesses
• For the relief of tumour-related pain
• In combination with chemotherapy for better chances of recovery

What are the benefits of radiotherapy for breast cancer?

Radiotherapy as a complement to breast-conserving surgery can prevent breast loss in the vast majority of cases. Radiotherapy is non-invasive and painless. It precisely destroys the tumour cells and thus spares the rest of the body.

Forms of radiotherapy

At our Breast Centre at the Englischer Garten, we use various radiotherapy procedures „from the outside and from the inside“.

External radiation (percutaneous) on the linear accelerator

External radiation on the linear accelerator is the most common type of application. It works with ultra-hard X-rays that pass through the skin to the target area from the outside. With computer-aided planning, we achieve a high level of precision and thus protect the surrounding tissue.

Breath-guided radiotherapy/DIBH („deep inspiration breathhold”)

Breath-guided radiotherapy is mainly used for left-sided breast cancer. Radiotherapy of the left breast is then only carried out with the patient breathing deeply, which means that the heart can be better protected and the patient must be able to hold their breath for around 20 - 30 seconds.

Brachytherapy

We also use brachytherapy as „afterloading“. This involves placing a sleeve in a body cavity, then inserting the radiation source and removing it again after a few minutes.

VMAT or IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy)

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy is a particularly finely tuned form of radiation therapy on the accelerator, in which the radiation is continuously adapted to the target area (e.g. tumour) by means of moving fade-ins (modulation). This allows the tumour dose to be achieved with maximum protection of the neighbouring organs. This minimises side effects.

Side effects of radiotherapy

With modern radiotherapy techniques, side effects are generally minimal. They can be treated well and are only temporary. Side effects depend on the necessary radiation dose, individual sensitivity and care during treatment. The most common side effect of breast radiotherapy is skin redness and swelling.

Behavioural tips during and after radiotherapy

As a rule, the skin irritations subside in about 2 - 3 weeks. If fatigue has occurred, it takes around 6 - 8 weeks until you feel fitter again. It is important to exercise regularly in the fresh air despite fatigue.

• Avoid irritation of the irradiated skin: Do not soap the area of irradiation, no deodorant, no perfume
• Only shower briefly, with lukewarm water, do not bathe, do not swim, do not go to the sauna
• Careful, „dry“ cooling (cool pack), but not on the bare skin
• Let your skin breathe — wear loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres, and take your bra off when you’re relaxing
• But: keep your breasts as still as possible: wear a well-fitting bra when moving (sports bra)
• Protect the skin from sunlight
• Avoid heavy housework (e.g. ironing, scrubbing, window cleaning)
• Do not apply cream prophylactically, but after consultation with the radiotherapists, usually only when there is a feeling of tension and reddening of the skin, then apply body lotion containing dexpanthenol after the radiotherapy session. No ointments!
• Daily exercise in the fresh air – walking, cycling — and plenty of rest too

Late effects of radiotherapy

Late effects are rare with modern techniques and are usually a combination of the consequences of surgery and radiotherapy. They are recorded and monitored by the radiotherapists. In individual cases, for example, hardening of the tissue and discolouration of the irradiated skin may occur.

Frequently asked questions about radiotherapy

Is radiotherapy painful?

No, you can't feel the rays. It's like an X-ray. The only thing that can be uncomfortable is lying in the same position for a long time.

Will I be radioactive after the radiotherapy?

No, you are not „radiating“. The radiation is only effective for the few seconds in which the device is switched to radiation.
This means you can socialise with other people and hug your loved ones without worrying.

Can I work during radiotherapy?

Yes, you can work, but you should allow yourself more rest than usual. The radiotherapy appointments should always take priority so that you never have to rush. Remember that your ability to cope with stress decreases during treatment. A few days off towards the end and afterwards would do you good.

Which comes first, chemo/immunotherapy or radiotherapy?

Chemotherapy/immunotherapy is only necessary in selected cases. Sometimes this takes place before the operation.
If chemotherapy/immunotherapy is to be given after the operation, chemotherapy is usually given first, followed by radiotherapy.
Immunotherapy often continues after radiotherapy.

Can I take hormone therapy during radiotherapy?

Yes, hormone therapy can be initiated during or after radiotherapy. If you have already started it before the operation, it does not have to be interrupted.

How long does it take to recover from radiotherapy?

Get in touch with us

At our Breast Centre, every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs. We focus on you as a person — we do not view you as a „case“ and respond with empathy to your questions and concerns. Our aim is to ensure you receive the best possible care and feel safe and well looked after.