ANA Discussion Forum

Treatment Options => Radiation / Radiosurgery => Topic started by: jbbrown15 on October 25, 2010, 01:26:38 pm

Title: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: jbbrown15 on October 25, 2010, 01:26:38 pm
My mother today questioned whether I should be having my body shielded, like at the dentist, when they do x-rays.  Before they turn the "beam" on, my techs take at least 2 x-rays, sometimes more if they need to readjust me to get me into place.  Then, of course, comes the stereotactic radiation. I wear my plastic mask, but nothing else (well, except for my clothes of course  :o).  She is especially concerned about my thyroid.  I'm having 26 treatments, so it all adds up.

Any thoughts? 
Title: Re: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: Jim Scott on October 25, 2010, 03:14:15 pm
JB ~

Frankly, this is a question for your radiation oncologist.  However, I don't believe that a doctor and the personnel administrating the radiation would allow you to receive dangerous levels of radiation.  Still, for your own peace of mind, I would raise the question with those involved in administrating the radiation, as well as your radiation oncologist.

Jim
Title: Re: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: jbbrown15 on October 25, 2010, 06:37:01 pm
I would agree, Jim.  But I was curious what other facilities do - whether they use any shields.
Title: Re: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: PaulW on October 26, 2010, 07:31:37 pm
Didnt get any shielding when I got treated, and I don't think it would do much at all.
The radiation is highly focused and does not scatter much.
Google "Isodose" I believe 4Gy in a single dose is considered safe for healthy tissue and should not cause any problems
I believe anything outside the 25% isodose line is normally considered safe and should not be affected in anyway..

I am not a doctor please speak with your radiation oncologist.



Title: Re: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: jbbrown15 on October 27, 2010, 01:27:11 pm
I spoke with my radiation oncologist today, who of course explained that sheilding is not nessary.  He said that the x-rays that the dentist does send radiation out in a broad spray, while the x-rays and the stereotactic radiation on my brain are both pinpointed.  I will tell my mother the doctor said to stop worrying!

Title: Re: Shielding Other Parts of the Body
Post by: Sue on November 08, 2010, 09:47:34 pm
That is what mother's do best!!  It's an art form.   ;)

Sue in Vancouver, USA