Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to damage and destroy cancer cells while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. It can play an important role in the treatment of both primary bone cancers and cancers that have spread to the bones.

For primary bone cancers, radiation therapy may be used as part of a treatment plan that also includes surgery, chemotherapy or other therapies, depending on the specific type, location and stage of the cancer. For metastatic cancer involving the bones, radiation therapy is commonly used to help relieve pain, control tumor growth and reduce complications caused by cancer in the affected bone.

Treatment schedules vary depending on each patient’s diagnosis and goals. Some patients may receive radiation over several weeks, while others may benefit from shorter treatment courses or highly focused radiation delivered in fewer sessions.

Your treatment is custom-tailored to your diagnosis, the location and size of the tumor, your overall health and your individual treatment goals. Your radiation oncologist will review your available treatment options and develop a personalized plan based on established treatment guidelines and your specific needs.