This information is for patients who are going to receive stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) to their spine. 

SABR is an effective way of giving radiotherapy. SABR is given over fewer treatment sessions which increases the chances of controlling the tumour and reducing pain more effectively than standard radiotherapy for some suitable patients.

This leaflet will explain:

  • General information about side effects of treatment
  • Any side effects that may affect your lifestyle and ways in which you can reduce or even overcome them
  • Who to contact when you need advice

You might find it helpful to read The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre booklet ‘Radiotherapy,’ which explains how radiotherapy works.

Side effects during and after your treatment

Likely

The following risks are likely if you have treatment to the bones of the spine:

  1. Your skin may become slightly red, dry and itchy, similar to sunburn at the treatment site. If your skin becomes uncomfortable, ask the therapy radiographers for advice.
  2. Tiredness (fatigue), it is quite common to feel more tired than usual for several weeks after your treatment has finished. It is important to rest when you feel the need to do so and ask your family and friends to help when they can. Gradually you will get back to normal activities.
  3. If you are having your upper spine treated, you are likely to experience inflammation of the lining of the mouth and oesophagus (passageway from mouth to stomach), which can result in difficulty swallowing. If this happens, your treatment team will advise as necessary.
  4. If you are having your lower spine treated you may experience some nausea (feeling sick) and/or diarrhoea (loose bowels). If this happens, your treatment team will advise regarding medication you can take to treat this.

Less likely and depends on the area being treated

  1. Inflammation of the lungs due to radiation treatment, which can result in cough, phlegm (thick mucous), difficulty breathing and/or pneumonia.
  2. Fracture or compression of the treated bones of the spine, which can result in pain and which may need non-surgical or surgical treatment.
  3. Discomfort or anxiety due to 60-90 minutes lying in a specific position, for the planning session and 30 minutes for treatment; your doctor may give you medicine to decrease the discomfort and/or anxiety.

Rare but serious – also depends on the area being treated 

  1. Oesophageal fistula (abnormal opening in the passageway from mouth to stomach). If you have any discomfort in swallowing, please tell your treatment team.
  2. Scarring of the small or large bowel, which can result in a blockage in the bowel that would require treatment. Please discuss any changes in bowel habits with your treatment team.
  3. Temporary or permanent damage to the spinal cord, which can result in:
    • Skin sensations, such as burning, prickling, itching or tingling
    • Muscle weakness causing inability to walk (paralysis)
    • Decreased ability or loss of ability to move a body part or to hold urine or control a bowel movement

Your clinical oncologist will see you regularly when your treatment has finished. If you have any problems or questions please contact your GP, the therapeutic radiographers on your treatment machine or consultant via their secretary. 

Contact details

SABR Treatment Radiographer and Coordinator 

0151 556 5583 or 0151 556 5341

The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust

www.clatterbridgecc.nhs.uk. Telephone 0151 556 5000

Macmillan Cancer Support

www.macmillan.org.uk. Telephone 0808 808 0000

Cancer Information and Support at:

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool. Telephone 0151 318 8805

Maggie's Wirral

Maggie's is a charity providing free cancer support and information to anybody who been affected by cancer.  Our Cancer Nurse Specialists, Psychologists and benefits advisors are here to support you during treatment or after your treatment has finished.    

The Maggie's Centres allow you to share experiences with others in a similar situation around our kitchen table. We provide courses on survivorship, bereavement, stress management, mindfulness, tai chi, yoga, relaxation or cancer support groups.  

You do not need an appointment or a referral to access any support from Maggie's, you can just drop in.  Our telephone number is 0151 334 4301.