Just got an email as to what to expect with internal radiation. I am just going to post that instead of trying to relay information, so what you are reading is what I know as well. Here goes...

TANDEM AND OVOIDS PATIENT INFORMATION

 

As part of your treatment, you will be undergoing a series of radiation implants called Tandem and Ovoids (T&O). The following information will outline what to expect with these treatments.

A tandem and ovoid implant is used to deliver a higher dose of radiation to the cervix than can be achieved with external radiation alone. Three metal rods are placed through the vagina, one into the uterus (the tandem), and the other two (the ovoids) just outside the cervix. To keep you more comfortable, this procedure is done in surgery while you are asleep. Because the implant is placed through the vagina, no surgical incision is necessary. The procedure only takes approximately ½ to 1 hour.

When you wake up from the anesthesia, you will be aware of the implant, a catheter to drain your urine and an IV. You may experience some cramping or menstrual-type pain. When you are stable, you will be transferred via stretcher to the Cancer Institute.

When you arrive at the Cancer Institute, an x-ray (simulation) of the implant will be taken. This x-ray is used to develop an individualized treatment plan. Planning must be done prior to your radiation treatment and takes approximately 1 hour. While waiting for the plan to be completed, you will be monitored by a nurse. If you like, your family may wait with you, you may read quietly or rest. After the first treatment, the same treatment plan may be used. In this case, the waiting is not necessary and you will receive your treatment immediately after your x-ray. However, a new plan may be needed depending on the results of your x-ray. Your physician or nurse will let you know whether a new plan is necessary and when treatment will begin.

When the plan is completed, the implant will be connected to the radiation treatment machine with connecting cables. The doctor and nurse will leave the treatment room. You will continue to be monitored via intercom and a TV monitor. During treatment, you will hear clicking and whirring sounds. Treatment takes approximately 10-20 minutes. Please lie quietly during the treatment.

When the radiation treatment is complete, the cable will be disconnected from the implant. The catheter, packing (gauze which holds the implant in place) and the implant will be removed. This process will be a little uncomfortable or feel funny. When everything is out, the discomfort quickly goes away. The IV is also removed. You will then be assisted to a sitting position and then out of bed. When you’re ready, you may get dressed and your escort will drive you home.

Plan to spend half the day at the hospital for this procedure. You are not radioactive so you may have family or friends visit if you like. However, you may be tired the day of the procedure so plan to rest the remainder of the day. Do not go to work the day you have the treatment. You will feel better the following morning after a good night’s sleep. Please do not drive for 24 hours after the procedure.

Also I plan to write in depth about Chemo this week, just been pretty sick and not totally up to writing. I will get there! I promise!!