A1 Understand health issues page 35 Flashcards
What is external radiotherapy, and how are X-rays used in it?
External radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays focused on a diseased area to destroy cancerous cells.
How do X-rays affect cancerous cells compared to normal cells during radiotherapy?
X-rays destroy cancerous cells, which cannot repair themselves, while normal cells are also damaged but can usually repair themselves.
What are the two purposes of X-ray treatment in cancer care?
X-ray treatment can be curative, aiming to destroy cancer, or palliative, aiming to relieve pain when a cure is not possible.
How can X-rays be used before and after surgery in cancer treatment?
X-rays can be used to shrink a tumour before surgery, making the procedure easier, and to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery to reduce the need for follow-up operations.
How can X-rays help improve the quality of life for cancer patients without the possibility of a cure?
X-rays can shrink a tumour and reduce pain, improving the quality and length of life for cancer patients, even when a cure is not possible.
What is computerised tomography (CT), and how is it performed?
Computerised tomography (CT) produces three-dimensional images from a series of thin cross-sectional X-ray images.
What is the purpose of CT scans in medical imaging?
CT scans are used to provide detailed images of body structures, helping in diagnosis and treatment planning.
