Overview

Total Body Irradiation (TBI) is a specialised form of radiation therapy that delivers carefully measured doses of radiation to the entire body. It is primarily used in the preparation for a bone marrow transplant or to treat specific cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.

At the Sarvodaya Cancer Institute, one of the leading cancer hospital in Delhi NCR, we utilise the cutting-edge Versa HD 6D Couch LINAC, one of the most advanced technologies available for TBI therapy. This ensures highly uniform radiation delivery with maximum tumour control and minimal damage to healthy tissues.

Our expert radiation oncologists customise each TBI therapy plan to meet the unique needs of every patient, ensuring accuracy, safety, and comfort throughout treatment.

Why is Total Body Irradiation (TBI) Required?

TBI treatment is used for patients who require whole-body exposure to radiation, either to destroy residual cancer cells or to prepare the body for a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.

At Sarvodaya Hospital, TBI therapy is recommended for:

• Leukaemia and Lymphoma: As part of conditioning before transplant or as a direct radiation treatment for cancer.
  
  
• Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant: To suppress the immune system and create space for new marrow growth (total body irradiation for bone marrow transplant).
  
  
• Recurrent or Resistant Cancers: Used alongside chemotherapy to enhance cancer cell destruction.
  
  
• Total Body Irradiation for Leukaemia: Destroys residual malignant cells and prevents recurrence before transplant.
  
  

By combining TBI radiation with chemotherapy or other targeted treatments, our oncologists aim to achieve maximum cancer control while maintaining patient safety.

Procedure

At the Sarvodaya Cancer Institute, TBI therapy is delivered in a carefully planned, step-by-step process by a team of expert radiation oncologists and medical physicists.

• Pre-Treatment Planning: Before therapy begins, imaging tests such as CT scans are performed to calculate the exact radiation dose. The patient’s height, weight, and body contour are evaluated to ensure uniform radiation delivery.

• Positioning and Shielding: Patients are positioned precisely, often standing or lying down, while protective shields safeguard critical organs like the lungs and kidneys.

• Radiation Delivery: Using the Versa HD 6D Couch LINAC, radiation is delivered evenly across the entire body in multiple sessions. Each treatment lasts about 20–40 minutes and is painless.

• Fractionation: Total body irradiation is typically divided into smaller doses (fractions) over several days to minimise side effects while ensuring effective cancer cell destruction.

• Post-Treatment Care: Patients are closely monitored for fatigue, nausea, or skin irritation, and supportive medications are provided.

Our precise imaging guidance and world-class infrastructure ensure a safe and effective TBI treatment experience for every patient.

Benefits of Total Body Irradiation (TBI)

TBI therapy offers multiple benefits when performed by expert specialists using the latest technology:

• Comprehensive Cancer Control: Destroys cancerous and residual malignant cells throughout the body, especially in total body irradiation for leukemia cases.

• Enhanced Transplant Success: Prepares the bone marrow for stem cell transplantation, reducing the risk of rejection and improving engraftment rates.

• Precision and Safety: With advanced planning software and the Versa HD 6D Couch LINAC, TBI radiation is delivered with exceptional accuracy while sparing healthy tissues

• Combined Therapy Advantage: When used with chemotherapy, TBI treatment increases overall treatment effectiveness and disease control.

• Experienced Specialists: Performed by a highly skilled team of radiation oncologists, physicists, and transplant experts in a technologically advanced facility.

Post-Treatment Lifestyle Modifications

Recovery after TBI therapy focuses on rebuilding strength, immunity, and overall well-being. Our team ensures personalised support for each patient throughout the post-treatment phase.

• Rest and Nutrition: Adequate rest and a balanced, nutrient-rich diet aid in recovery and immune system restoration.

• Infection Prevention: Avoid crowded places and practice good hygiene, as immunity may be temporarily reduced after radiation therapy.

• Hydration and Skin Care: Drink plenty of fluids and keep skin moisturised to manage dryness from radiation exposure.

• Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled appointments for monitoring bone marrow recovery and overall health status.

• Emotional and Mental Health Support: Counselling and family support play a crucial role in emotional recovery following TBI treatment.