Radiotherapy for benign disease

Abstract

Radiation therapy for benign disease aims to restore function and can improve quality of life. Irradiation for benign conditions is usually performed with a low daily and total radiation dose and a lower number of treatment fractions (compared to the dose used for malignant diseases). With modern radiation therapy, the risk of damaging healthy tissue is minimal. The radiation is directed precisely to the affected area so that healthy tissue is spared. Radiation therapy for benign diseases is safe and effective. However, it is crucial to recognize the disadvantages of radiation therapy. It is also always essential to evaluate if the benefits of radiation outweigh the potential negative effects.

Keywords

• radiotherapy
• benign disease
• pain
• osteoarthritis