What is the primary goal of fractionation in radiation therapy?

The primary goal of fractionation in radiation therapy is to minimize damage to healthy tissues. Fractionation involves dividing the total radiation dose into smaller, more manageable doses that are administered over several sessions. This approach helps in maximizing the effect on cancer cells while giving healthy cells time to recover between treatments.

By spreading out the radiation exposure, the risk of damaging normal tissues surrounding the tumor is significantly reduced. This is particularly important because many tissues in the body can be sensitive to radiation, and preserving their function is critical for the patient's overall health and recovery. Therefore, the strategy of fractionation is integral to achieving a balance between effectively targeting tumor cells and protecting healthy cells from excessive radiation exposure.