Oncology

Once a diagnosis has been made, our cancer specialists will discuss care options with you and your primary care physician. In some cases, your cancer will need to be addressed with radiation, chemotherapy, surgery or a combination of these treatments.

Every aspect of our center was designed with your unique needs in mind, including large, private chemotherapy suites and an abundance of designated parking near our entrance. We prioritize your comfort and safety above all else.

Chemotherapy

We may decide to use chemotherapy, immunotherapy and oral chemotherapy to treat your cancer. Chemotherapy can be used alone or as part of a cancer treatment plan that may also include surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapies or biological therapies.

We offer state-of-the-art infusion therapy for treating cancer and many other diseases. Our infusion center is staffed with highly trained, chemotherapy-certified oncology nurses who work closely with our physicians to manage treatments and monitor your physical and emotional well-being.

Your physician will provide you with detailed information regarding your specific treatment regimen.

Imaging services

Our cancer center uses a range of imaging services, such as X-ray, computerized tomography (CT) scans and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, to detect and monitor cancerous tissues and tumors. A PET scan, in particular, can help physicians detect abnormalities on the cellular level. Each form of imaging has its benefits and limitations. Your physician may use more than one form of imaging to monitor and help treat your condition.

Interventional radiology

Interventional radiology uses minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat various diseases. These procedures often offer less discomfort and shorter recovery times compared to open surgery. For cancer treatment, a catheter may be placed inside the body to treat you non- surgically. Other forms of interventional radiology may also be used to treat cancer or target a tumor.

Radiation therapy

During external radiation therapy, radiation is directed through the skin to the tumor and the immediate surrounding area to destroy it and nearby cancer cells. Our radiation oncologists use several types of external beam radiation, including:

• Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) — 3D representations of the tumor and surrounding organs enable your radiation oncologist to accurately tailor beams to the size and shape of your tumor. The beams target the tumor with precision, leaving noncancerous tissue minimally exposed. This type of therapy is often used to treat tumors that would otherwise be considered too close to vital organs for radiation therapy.
• Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) — IMRT is a specialized form of 3D-CRT that allows radiation to be even more exact. This type of cancer treatment is used to break up radiation into many small beams that can be individually modified. By bending each beam and controlling its intensity, your radiation oncologist may be able to further limit healthy tissue exposure and, in some situations, deliver higher doses to the tumor itself.
• Image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) - IGRT is used to improve radiation delivery when tumors move between treatments. With IGRT, radiation treatment is guided by imaging technologies, such as CT scans, ultrasounds or X-rays, so the tumor’s movement can be tracked and your treatment team can direct radiation to its exact location.

Beginning radiation treatment

If you are considering radiation therapy, you must first meet with a radiation oncologist to see if it is right for you. During your first visit, your doctor will evaluate your need for radiation therapy and its likely results.

Many healthcare professionals may be brought in to assist with your specific needs, to keep you strong during your treatment or to help you and your family navigate the system. Every person that comes to the cancer center is paired with a team of specialists. Based on your individual needs, the team may include:

• Medical specialists – The area’s top oncologists, surgeons and support specialists will work collectively to create personalized treatment plans that are right for you.
• Nurse navigators – Professionals who provide guidance and support throughout treatment, as well as help eliminate barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment.
• Nutritionists – Dieticians who provide customized nutrition plans and guidance as needed.
• Physical therapists– Practitioners who help you maintain strength during treatment and help you recover after treatment or surgery.
• Support groups – Hosted by an experienced, oncology-certified nurse to ensure you are supported and surrounded by individuals who know first-hand what you or loved ones are experiencing.
• Tumor board – An interdisciplinary team that meets at the center once a month to discuss individual cases to ensure they receive the gold standard of treatment.