Side effects depend on the tumor location treated, the dose administered, and associated treatments. The radiation oncologist will explain to you in a personalized way the possible expected effects in your specific situation before starting treatment. Generally, effects begin gradually from the second or third week and most are transient, improving gradually after treatment ends.

Most proton therapy treatments range between 15 and 40 sessions, administered once a day, 5 days a week. Total duration is usually 3 to 6 weeks. In hypofractionated protocols (for example, prostate or breast) the number of sessions may be lower.

No. Proton therapy does not cause pain during administration. During the session you will not notice any special sensation. True irradiation time varies depending on the treatment technique and the complexity of each case. The rest of the time (approximately 20–30 minutes total) is spent on positioning and precision verification guided by imaging.

In many cases, yes. About 30% of patients trated with protontherapy at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra are previously irradiated patients. This complex process requires  careful analysis of previous doses and organs at risk before proposing a new course of radiation. It will be essential to provide medical reports and the previous irradiation plan. That's why a detailed second opinion with all your documentation is crucial.

In certain cases, proton therapy can be administered simultaneously with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other systemic treatments. This decision will be made by your medical team, who will define the most appropriate therapeutic scheme according to your clinical situation.

Anesthesia during proton therapy is mainly indicated in children who cannot remain still during the procedure, usually under 7 years old. However, the need will be assessed individually by the medical team and the pediatric anesthesia service.

No. Proton therapy is not an invasive or painful treatment. During the first days, the child may be fearful of the hospital environment. Active participation of parents is essential and the team is specially trained to accompany the process.

In general, they can continue with their usual routine: playing and performing moderate physical activity. If there are any specific recommendations, the medical team will provide them in a personalized way.

Clínica Universidad de Navarra uses a Hitachi synchrotron very similar to other used in USA and Japan, with pencil beam scanning techniques, rotating gantry, and advanced imaging and respiratory gating systems. The main difference is not in the "machine," but in the team's experience and integration within a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

• Same technological league (Hitachi, IMPT, advanced imaging) as other top centers in United States or Japan.
• Total treatment cost significantly lower than in the U.S. and UK.
• Safe European environment, city with high quality of life and more accessible logistics for accompanying family.
• Consolidated experience with more than 1,000 treated patients.
• Integration in high-complexity hospital with access to all specialties.

Prices vary depending on complexity, number of sessions, pediatric anesthesia, or hospitalization. Your personalized budget will detail medical fees, planning, treatment, controls, and the approximate follow-up plan.

It depends on the type of policy and whether it offers international coverage or reimbursement outside North America. Clínica Universidad de Navarra has consolidated experience in managing procedures with more than 140 countries. We can issue detailed medical reports to justify the indication to your insurer.

The International Patient Service can help you coordinate treatment start and end dates, book accommodation near the clinic adapted if traveling with family or children, manage airport-hospital-accommodation transfers, and facilitate translations and interpreters if necessary.

In general, you can fly a few days after finishing treatment, as long as your clinical condition is stable and there are no complications. The medical team will assess your individual situation before authorizing travel.

It is not mandatory in all cases, although it is recommended, especially during the first days or if your clinical condition requires it. In pediatric patients, accompaniment by parents or guardians is essential.

The first re-evaluation usually takes place approximately 1-3 months after finishing treatment depending on the nature of the cancer. Control tests can be performed in your country of origin or at the center where you continue your usual follow-up. You will be given a detailed medical report to facilitate care continuity.

Yes. You can maintain contact with the team through the email provided by the department. Our commitment is to ensure follow-up continuity and resolve any questions that may arise after your return.