Brain tumour radiotherapy uses radiation to treat a tumour in the brain or cancer that has spread to the brain. It may be given after surgery, instead of surgery, or to control symptoms.
Your team may use standard radiotherapy, SRS, or whole-brain radiotherapy depending on the number, size, and type of tumours.
01 · Understand the examination
About this scan
Common Indications for Brain Tumour Radiotherapy
Your doctor may recommend it for:
- A brain tumour after surgery.
- A tumour that cannot be removed safely.
- Cancer spread to the brain.
- A tumour that has grown again.
- Symptom control from swelling or pressure.
- Selected benign tumours that are growing or causing symptoms.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
No, unless your doctor says so. Keep taking seizure medicine or steroids exactly as prescribed.
What happens when I arrive?
Radiographers position you on the couch and place your mask over your face. The mask keeps your head still. It should feel firm, not painful.
Is there any discomfort?
The radiation is painless. The mask can feel tight, and lying flat may be uncomfortable if you have headaches or nausea.
Are there risks?
Side effects may include tiredness, hair loss in the treated area, scalp soreness, nausea, headache, or swelling. Tell your team urgently if headaches, vomiting, weakness, confusion, or seizures worsen.
02 · Plan ahead
Before your appointment
What exactly does brain radiotherapy treat?
It treats the planned brain target. This may be the surgical cavity, a visible tumour, several brain deposits, or sometimes the whole brain.
How should I prepare?
You will usually have a planning scan and a custom mask. Bring your MRI or CT reports if your team asks. Tell them about seizures, headaches, weakness, or steroid medicines.
How is the treatment performed?
The machine gives radiation to the planned area while you lie still. The team watches you from outside the room and can speak to you.
How long does treatment take?
Standard sessions may take 10 to 30 minutes. SRS sessions may take longer because the setup checks are more detailed.
03 · Important exceptions
Safety and special situations
Can children have this treatment?
Yes, but children need specialist paediatric cancer care. The team will consider growth, learning, and long-term effects carefully.
Can I have this treatment if I am pregnant?
04 · Know the red flags
When to seek urgent help
When should I seek urgent help?
Seek urgent assessment for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than usual, new weakness, worsening confusion, loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, or a sudden severe headache. Do not stop steroids or anti-seizure medicines suddenly unless your clinician tells you to.
05 · Learn more
Sources and summary
Sources and further reading
Conclusion
Brain radiotherapy is planned with extra care because the brain is sensitive. Take your seizure or steroid medicines as prescribed, and report new or worsening symptoms quickly.