What Happens If You Miss One Radiation Therapy Session?

If you are undergoing radiation therapy you may have been told that every session is important. So what happens if you miss one?

Missing one radiation therapy session does not mean your treatment will stop working. However it is important to let your radiation oncology team know soon as possible. They will decide whether you need to make up the missed session or adjust your treatment schedule.

Why are radiation sessions planned carefully?

Radiation therapy is usually given over sessions rather than in one large dose. This schedule is carefully planned to give the amount of radiation to the cancer while allowing healthy tissues some time to recover.

Your treatment schedule depends on factors, including:

• The type of cancer you have
• Where the cancer is located
• The stage of the cancer
• The total radiation dose planned
• The number of treatment sessions
• Your overall treatment plan

Because of this your radiation oncologist plans your treatment schedule specifically for you.

Does missing one session mean radiation therapy will not work?

No. Missing one session does not automatically mean that radiation therapy will not work.

What matters is how the missed session affects your treatment schedule. In some cases your radiation oncologist may simply add the missed session at another time. In some situations, they may make a different adjustment based on your treatment plan.

The important thing is not to panic or stop treatment on your own.

Why is it important not to miss sessions

Although one missed session does not mean treatment has failed, repeatedly missing sessions or having gaps in treatment can affect the planned course of radiation therapy.

Radiation therapy works as part of a designed schedule. Your cancer care team considers the timing and total dose when planning your treatment.

That is why it is best to attend every scheduled session whenever possible.

Missed Your Session? Here’s What to Do Next

If you cannot attend your scheduled radiation treatment:

1. Inform your radiation oncology team.

Tell them as soon as you can if you have to miss an appointment.

2. Do not try to have a session on your own.

If you are unable to attend a session let your doctor know and ask your doctor what you should do next.

Your doctor will give you a schedule so make sure you follow the new schedule that your doctor gives you.

3. Try to maintain your treatment schedule.

If you are having difficulty travelling, managing work or dealing with side effects, tell your care team. They may be able to help you manage these challenges.

What if you miss a session because of side effects?

Sometimes patients may feel too tired or uncomfortable to come for treatment. If side effects are making it difficult for you to continue your sessions, speak to your radiation oncology team rather than deciding to take a break yourself.

Your team can assess your symptoms. Suggest ways to manage them.

What if I miss more than one session?

If you have missed sessions don’t assume that your treatment has been ruined.

Contact your radiation oncology team soon as possible. Your doctor will review your treatment schedule. Decide what needs to be done.

The appropriate approach can vary for each patient. There is no single rule for how missed sessions should be handled.

Can you take a break from radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy should not be stopped or interrupted without discussing it with your doctor.

If you have a reason for missing treatment, such as illness, travel difficulties or severe side effects, tell your care team. They can help you understand your options and decide the way forward.

The Bottom Line

Missing one radiation therapy session does not necessarily mean your treatment will not work. However, unnecessary interruptions should be avoided because every session is part of your planned treatment schedule.

If you miss a session, don’t panic or make up for it on your own. Contact your radiation oncology team as soon as possible. Your radiation oncologist will decide whether the session needs to be rescheduled.

 

DOCTOR DETAILS:
Dr. Prahlad Yathiraj
Clinical Lead and Senior Consultant
Radiation Oncology