Radiotherapy is sometimes used alongside chemotherapy to treat cancer. It is the use of high-energy rays to destroy cancerous cells in the body and is usually given Monday-Friday with a rest over the weekend. The length of treatment your child requires, if they need it, will depend on their cancer and will be discussed with you. You will meet one of the radiotherapy team from Nottingham City Hospital who will plan any radiotherapy. If required, whilst radiotherapy treatment is happening, arrangements to stay closer to the hospital can be discussed with your consultant/keyworker during the planning process. Radiotherapy needs to be carefully planned with a radiotherapy doctor (Clinical Oncologist). A play specialist will also help them prepare for the procedure. Similar to chemotherapy, radiotherapy can cause a variety of side effects depending on the area of the body treated; these may include tiredness, effects on the digestive system, effects on the bone marrow and effects on the skin. Your child will be closely monitored for signs of these side effects during the radiotherapy treatment.

For further information on both chemotherapy and radiotherapy please refer to the CCLG ‘Children’s and Young People with Cancer: A Parent’s Guide’.