Patrick Linson, MD, MPH, DABR
Prostate Radiation Therapy
A clear guide to what happens, how to prepare and what may help.
Patient Guide
Prostate Radiation Therapy
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) shapes a three-dimensional radiation dose around the prostate while limiting exposure to nearby healthy tissue. Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) is an advanced form of IMRT that delivers the shaped dose as the treatment machine moves around you. Cone-beam CT is performed before treatment so the team can review anatomy and make small positioning adjustments. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is a highly focused form of external-beam radiation and is used for the final three treatments in this combined pathway.
← Back to Prostate Cancer resourcesHow We Keep Your Treatment Accurate
- Fiducial markers help locate the prostate during imaging and treatment.
- A self-absorbing rectal spacer (hydrogel) helps move the rectum away from the prostate.
- Follow the bladder and bowel instructions supplied by the care team.
- A customized support such as a Vac-Lok cushion helps reproduce your position.
- CT simulation maps the prostate and nearby organs.
- The physician defines the target and organs to protect; the dosimetrist and medical physicist create and verify the plan.
- Image guidance confirms tumor location and positioning before radiation is delivered.
Before the First Treatment
- Complete consultation and insurance authorization.
- Fiducial markers and a rectal spacer (hydrogel) may be placed by Urology or Interventional Radiology.
- Complete MRI and CT simulation (approximately 7–10 days after the procedure).
- The physician, dosimetrist and medical physicist design and verify the treatment plan. Planning and quality checks commonly take 7–10 business days.
During Treatment
- Follow the bladder and bowel instructions supplied by the care team.
- The radiation therapists will carefully position you in the same way as during simulation.
- Imaging confirms your position before each treatment is delivered.
- Possible short-term effects include urinary frequency, urgency or burning; bowel irritation, loose stools or gas; mild fatigue; and changes in sexual function.
- After completing 25 IMRT/VMAT treatments, you will undergo a second CT simulation. This updated scan helps the care team account for your current anatomy and precisely plan and verify the next phase of treatment: three SBRT treatments.
- You will meet with the doctor and nurse weekly for IMRT/VMAT and once during your SBRT course to discuss urinary, bowel, energy, or other changes, review what to expect after treatment, and discuss your follow-up plan.
After Treatment
- Short-term urinary and rectal symptoms often improve within 4–6 weeks, although recovery varies.
- Continue routine care with your primary care clinician and other members of your cancer-care team.
Important: This guide is for patient education only. Your care team’s instructions and individualized treatment prescription take priority.