Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy

How We Keep Your Treatment Accurate

• A fitted thermoplastic mask or mold keeps the treatment area in a precise, repeatable position.
• When treating the face, customized shields may protect nearby structures such as the eyes, eyelids, lips, or nose. Tell the care team before simulation if you are claustrophobic.
• CT simulation maps the area to be treated.
• The physician defines the target and areas 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 your consultation and insurance authorization.
• Complete CT simulation.
• The physician, dosimetrist and medical physicist design and verify the treatment plan. Planning and quality checks commonly take 7–10 business days.

Complete the consultation and treatment-area planning or CT simulation. A customized mask, positioning device or shielding may be prepared when needed. The treatment plan and safety checks are completed before treatment begins.

During Treatment

• The radiation therapists will carefully position you in the same way as during simulation.
• Imaging confirms your position before each treatment is delivered.
• Keep the treatment area clean and dry. Wash gently with warm, not hot, water and a mild cleanser if recommended.
• Avoid tight or scratchy clothing that rubs the treated area.
• Protect the area from the sun and ask the team about swimming or other activities.
• Follow the recommended daily skin-care routine and use only products approved by your care team. Unless instructed otherwise, do not apply these products within two hours before treatment.
• Early changes may include mild redness or dryness. The skin may later become more red, warm, itchy or tender.
• You will meet with the doctor and nurse weekly during your treatment course to discuss any symptoms, review what to expect after treatment, and discuss your follow-up plan.

After Treatment

• A stronger reaction may occur near the end of treatment or shortly afterward, including peeling, crusting or an open moist area. Follow the care team's skin-care instructions.
• Skin reactions usually heal gradually after treatment; duration varies with the area treated and reaction.
• Continue routine care with your primary care clinician and other members of your cancer-care team.