Ways To Treat Salivary Gland Cancer

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, treats salivary gland cancer with high-powered energy beams capable of killing cancer cells or at least stopping their growth. The process is done with a machine that points the beams at certain points on the body. There are two types of radiotherapy. The kind used depends on the type and stage of the salivary gland cancer. Internal radiotherapy is administered through wires, catheters, and other tools containing a radioactive substance. The instrument is placed directly into or close to the cancer. External radiation uses a machine to deliver radiation from many different angles. Special types of external radiation therapy include fast neutron radiation therapy and photo-beam radiation therapy. Fast neutron radiation therapy uses neutrons to kill cancer cells, and higher-energy radiation is utilized for fewer treatments. Photon-beam radiation therapy uses a machine called a linear accelerator to reach deep tumors. This type is administered through high-energy x-rays and can also be delivered as hyperfractionated radiation therapy to allow for smaller doses given more than once daily. External radiation therapy can also be used palliatively.

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