Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is used to destroy cancer cells. It may be used by itself or in combination with cancer-fighting medicines or surgery. For example, radiation may be used to shrink a tumor before surgery so that it can be removed more easily or it can be used after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.

The goal of cancer radiation treatment is to target specific tumors with the exact amount of radiation required, while minimizing damage to normal, healthy tissue. Your diagnosing physician will need to refer you for treatment.

On your first visit, you will meet the radiation oncologist, who will discuss in detail the entire treatment plan: diagnosis, staging and treatment. It is important that we have your medical records pathology reports and imaging studies available for review at this time. Remember at this time to tell us if you are pregnant or if you are using a pacemaker, an implanted defibrillator or other electronic equipment.

Treatment simulation and the planning process will begin on the second visit. It will last approximately one hour, during which technicians will simulate the actual treatment, take measurements of your body contours and tailor your radiation shielding. Marks that will be used to guide treatment will be placed on your skin at this time and we’ll ask you not to not wash them off until advised to do so by our staff.

Normally, treatment begins within five days of simulation; however, urgent radiation treatment can be started on the first visit. You will receive radiation daily, Monday through Friday, for several weeks. The actual treatment takes only about 15 minutes. Our oncology nurse will help you understand the side effects and how your lifestyle may be affected. No pain or sensation is felt during radiation therapy.

For more information, please call 618-985-3333.