In EBRT, a machine precisely directs radiation beams to the prostate.
Learn more about:
How EBRT is given
Each treatment session takes about 15 minutes. You will lie on the treatment table under the radiation machine. The machine doesn’t touch you but may rotate around you. You can’t see or feel the radiation.
There are different types of EBRT. Your radiation oncologist will talk to you about the most suitable type for your situation. Usually, EBRT for prostate cancer is given Monday to Friday for 4–9 weeks. Some newer forms of EBRT are given in 5–7 treatments over 2 weeks.
EBRT does not make you radioactive and there is no danger to people near you. Most people feel well enough to work and do their normal activities, though fatigue may increase as your treatment continues.
Reducing the risk of bowel side effects
Radiation therapy can cause bowel changes.
- To move the bowel away from the prostate and help prevent side effects, the radiation oncologist may suggest a spacer. Before treatment begins, a temporary gel or balloon is injected between the prostate and bowel. This is done by a urologist as a day procedure under a light anaesthetic. The cost of a spacer is not subsidised by Medicare. Ask your doctors what you will have to pay and the benefits for your situation.
- The radiation therapist may advise you to drink fluids before each treatment session so you have a full bladder. This will expand your bladder and push the bowel higher up into the abdomen, away from the radiation.
- The radiation team may also advise you to go to the toilet to empty your bowels before each treatment. This can help to ensure the prostate is in the same position every time.
→ READ MORE: Brachytherapy for prostate cancer
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Key resource
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More resources
Prof Declan Murphy, Consultant Urologist, Director – Genitourinary Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and The University of Melbourne, VIC; Alan Barlee, Consumer; Dr Patrick Bowden, Radiation Oncologist, Epworth Hospital, Richmond, VIC; Bob Carnaby, Consumer; Dr Megan Crumbaker, Medical Oncologist, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, NSW; Henry McGregor, Health Physiotherapist, Adelaide Men’s Health Physio, SA; Jessica Medd, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Urology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital and Headway Health, NSW; Dr Gary Morrison, Shine a Light (LGBTQIA+ Cancer Support Group); Caitriona Nienaber, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA; Graham Rees, Consumer; Kerry Santoro, Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse Consultant, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, SA; Prof Phillip Stricker, Chairman, Department of Urology, St Vincent’s Private Hospital, NSW; Dr Sylvia van Dyk, Brachytherapy Lead, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC.
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