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Recovery · Oncology · Radiation oncology

Proton / heavy-ion therapy recovery timeline

Day-by-day recovery after proton / heavy-ion therapy at Class A international departments — discharge, fly-home clearance, return to work, and full activity.

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Length of stay
35–60 days
Fly-home clearance
Week 8–10
Back to desk work
Month 3
Full activity
Year 1+

Day-by-day timeline

  1. When
    Week 0

    Simulation + planning

    CT/MRI simulation, 5–10 days for plan approval.

  2. When
    Weeks 1–6

    Daily fractions

    5 days/week, 15–30 min per session. Most patients work or sightsee around treatment.

  3. When
    Week 6+

    Final fraction + 2-week observation

    Acute toxicity peaks 2 weeks after end of treatment.

  4. When
    Week 8–10

    Fly-home clearance

    Once acute reactions subside.

  5. When
    Month 3

    First imaging follow-up

    MRI/PET to assess response.

  6. When
    Year 1+

    Surveillance

    Quarterly imaging in year 1, then 6-monthly.

Red-flag symptoms

If any of the following occur post-discharge, contact the operating surgeon immediately or present to local emergency services:

  • New neurological deficit
  • Severe skin breakdown
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Persistent fever

12-month tele-follow-up

  • Tele-onc review at month 1, 3, 6, 12 — coordinated with home oncologist

Aftercare on repatriation

Treatment course is 6–8 weeks of in-country residence — most patients use a serviced apartment.

Frequently asked

When can I fly home after proton / heavy-ion therapy?
Fly-home clearance is typically issued at Week 8–10. Once acute reactions subside.
When can I return to work after proton / heavy-ion therapy?
Month 3: MRI/PET to assess response.
When can I resume full activity?
Year 1+: Quarterly imaging in year 1, then 6-monthly.
What red-flag symptoms should I watch for?
New neurological deficit; Severe skin breakdown; Sudden weight loss; Persistent fever. Contact the operating surgeon or local A&E immediately if any occur.

Plan your proton / heavy-ion therapy pathway

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