Proton therapy for adults: the procedure

Before the treatment starts, you will meet the radiotherapist-oncologist, a doctor who specialises in radiation treatments and more specifically in proton therapy. The radiotherapist-oncologist will discuss with you the treatment that is most suitable for you (the treatment plan).

In order to set up an individual treatment plan, you will first get an appointment for the CT-simulator. A CT-simulator (CT = computer tomography) is a CT-scanner that will make a three- or four-dimensional image, during which you lie in the same position as during the radiation. A CT-simulation is painless.

Your first radiotherapy session usually follows two to three weeks after the CT-simulation. This time span is needed to set up and thoroughly check your treatment plan. Afterwards, you'll return regularly for further sessions.

Following your radiotherapy sessions, you will have weekly or fortnightly appointments with the radiotherapist-oncologist or a trainee doctor specialist. After your last session, you remain under observation to monitor the effect of your treatment.

Proton therapy can cause side effects, such as fatigue, increased need for sleep or a reduces appetite. Depending on which body part is being radiated, specific side effects can occur. Your physician will inform you about this and discuss how these reactions can be handled.