Radiation Therapy

What happens right after the procedure?

Some medicines may be used to relieve acute or late side effects. However, they may not be very effective. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can reduce damage to healthy organs. People can often go home after the procedure if they have no other reason to stay in the hospital.

People who receive external-beam therapy do not put others at risk. They are not radioactive during or after treatment. Patients who have the implants can emit radiation. Precautions are taken to prevent other people from being exposed.