Total Body Irradiation (TBI)
Overview
Sometimes, in order to treat certain cancers or to get the body ready for a stem cell transplant or bone marrow transplant, doctors need to use radiation. This special treatment is called Total Body Irradiation, or TBI. It’s a way to make sure that your body is ready for the next step in your treatment.
While it may sound a little scary at first, we want to help you understand how TBI works, how it will help you, and what to expect.
Aims
Eradication of Cancer Cells
TBI aims to destroy any remaining malignant cells in the body, which is crucial for patients with blood cancers.
Immunosuppression
The procedure suppresses the immune system to reduce the risk of transplant rejection when healthy donor cells are introduced.
Treatment of Hard-to-Reach Areas
TBI can target areas where chemotherapy alone may not effectively eliminate disease, such as the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
We’re Here to Help
We understand that the idea of TBI can be a little confusing or worrying. But remember, we’re all here to help you. You’re strong and brave, and this treatment is an important step in getting you healthy.
Our whole team will be with you the whole time to make sure you feel safe and comfortable. Together, we’ll make sure you’re ready for your next steps on the road to healing.
Preparing for TBI
Pre-Treatment Assessment
Before the treatment, you’ll meet with a team of doctors, nurses, and radiation specialists who explain everything to you and your family. We’ll make sure you feel comfortable and ready.
Family Involvement
It is important to engage family members in discussions about their feelings and experiences related to treatment. Maintaining open communication provides reassurance and comfort.
Education
To create a supportive environment, especially for young children, we emphasize the importance of comfort. We collaborate with the radiology team to prepare children for TBI by arranging preparatory visits to the center, helping them become familiar with the procedure. We are pleased to report that many young patients have successfully undergone TBI without the need for anesthesia or sedation. This approach minimizes the side effects associated with these medications, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with leukemia who may require frequent treatments. Our goal is to provide painless care while adequately preparing patients to avoid unwanted side effects like nausea or vomiting.
The Treatment
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You’ll lie on a special bed in a room where the radiation machine is.
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The radiation is delivered to your body from all around, like a gentle light.
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No needles or pokes are involved, just a peaceful, quiet time where the radiation works from the outside to help your body.
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You might feel a little warm or tingly, but you won’t feel anything during the treatment. It usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.
After Treatment
After the TBI, you’ll rest for a while. The nurses will check on you, and you can relax with your favorite book, music, or movie. Most kids feel okay right after the treatment, but you might feel a little tired.
Common Side Effects
TBI can cause fatigue, nausea, skin irritation, and changes in appetite. Children may also experience long-term effects such as growth delays or hormonal changes.
Follow-Up Care
After TBI, regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor patient’s recovery, manage any complications, and assess overall health.