Preparation Guide

To ensure your radiation treatment is delivered accurately, it is important to have:

• An empty rectum
• A comfortably full bladder

These preparations help keep your internal organs in a consistent position during each treatment session, improve treatment accuracy, and reduce radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissues. This helps reduce side effects.

From the day you are seen in clinic, it is important to start:

• Drinking 2–3 litres of fluid per day (water or flavoured water)
• Avoiding tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks

On the day of your CT simulation and radiation therapy appointments:

• If you have a morning appointment, drink 1 litre of water before arriving at ACOC. If you have an afternoon appointment, drink 1.5–2 litres before arriving.
• Empty your bladder before making your way to ACOC.
• Once you are told to drink water, empty your bladder and bowels if possible, then drink one 330ml bottle of water within 5 minutes.
• Do not urinate until after your treatment session.
• If you feel the urge to urinate, please speak to a member of the radiotherapy team.

From the day you are seen in clinic, it is important to start:

• Reducing foods and drinks that cause gas — e.g. green leafy vegetables, beans and pulses, spicy foods, fizzy drinks
• Following the nutritional advice given by your care team
• Regular, gentle exercise to encourage bowel movements
• Staying well hydrated — drink plenty of water

On the day of your CT simulation and radiation therapy appointments:

• Ensure you empty your rectum before your appointment
• If you feel gassy or constipated, let a member of the radiotherapy team know
• If you are required to use an enema, follow the instructions provided by your care team