What is Delayed Radiation Injury or the Late Effects of Radiation?
Many cancers that were once thought to be untreatable are now routinely curable. Unfortunately, when used to treat cancer, ionizing radiation is a double-edged sword. It is extremely effective at killing cancer cells and curing cancer. However there is no way to protect nonmalignant tissues from being irreparably damaged by ionizing radiation, despite best efforts and intentions. As a result, while the patient is fortunate to be cancer-free, he or she may suffer from delayed radiation injury months or even decades after treatment is completed. Delayed injuries can occur more than 6 months to years after radiation treatment is completed. These are caused by additional injuries to the previously irradiated field, such as surgery or trauma.
Why Choose Us?
Late Side Effects of Radiation We Can Treat:
Chronic Radiation Tissue Injury (CRTI)
Soft Tissue Radionecrosis (STRN)
Osteoradionecrosis (ORN)
Radiation cystitis (bleeding from the bladder due to radiation)
Radiation proctitis (last part of the large bowel)
Partial loss of skin flap viability
Compromised Skin Grafts & Flaps
Radiation Tissue Injury After Mastectomy
Plastic Surgery/Mastectomies
Keep Informed. Take Care.
Approximately 30,000 patients receiving radiation therapy each year will experience serious complications within 6 months - 1 year of treatment.
Treating the Late Effects of Radiation
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is commonly used to combat the late effects of radiation, reducing swelling, creating new skin cells, fighting toxins and bacteria, and reducing skin discoloration. Blood arteries in irradiated tissue can become constricted and scarred, not presenting itself for months, if not years, after radiation treatment. HBOT accelerates the wound healing process by increasing oxygenation to all tissues and promoting new skin development, as well as new blood vessel formation. HBOT is frequently the only treatment option for patients who want to avoid irreversible bone or tissue loss or who want to undergo life-improving reconstructive procedures like breast or face surgery. By providing this therapy at our facilities, we are able to provide a higher quality of life to individuals who have already survived debilitating illnesses. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the treatment options for delayed radiation injury available at The Center for Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine and Hyperbaric Medicine.
