[Radiation treatment of benign diseases--indications, results and technic]

Radiotherapy is an effective means to treat several benign diseases; in fact, the therapeutic effects set in quickly and are of a long-term nature. Relapses are rare. Side effects or other undesirable reactions are negligible. The gonads are under risk that should not be underestimated, but this is usually acceptable within reasonable limits. The age of the woman patient and localisation of the disease are decisive factors. Definite dosage reductions can be achieved by suitable radioprotective measures. Nevertheless, indications for any kind of radiotherapy with ionising radiation should be strict as a matter of principle.