Radiation Oncologists from the James Graham Brown Cancer Center (B. O. Jose, MD, Kristie Paris, MD, and William Spanos. MD) are available for consultation and treatment planning by appointment.  Radiation technologists are on staff to provide radiation therapy Monday through Friday.  CT is also provided to ensure the therapies are effectively targeting the appropriate areas. 

Our radiation oncologists treat all types of cancer, using some of the world's most sophisticated cancer-fighting technology.  Liner accelerators, linked through a computer network, enable our physicians, physicists, and technologists to use a team approach to patient care.  This equipment's capabilities, along with 3D treatment planning, allow us to participate in specialized national clinical trials.  These additions also increase the efficiency or our treatment and maximize patient comfort.

What is radiation?

Radiation therapy is a localized cancer treatment that used energy waves called radiation to target tumors or specific areas of your body.  Radiation is used to kill cancer cells and/or stop them from spreading. 

Radiation treatments are given externally, internally or in a combination of both.  Most people receive external treatment, in which a machine directs radiation at the cancer.  With internal radiation, also called brachytherapy, small radiation implants are placed into the tumor. 

Radiation is sometimes given concurrent with chemotherapy.  The chemotherapy treatments are provided at the Cancer Center in an adjoining department. 

What's the process for getting radiation?

Before you begin your treatment, you will meet with our nurse and physician (radiation oncologist) to review your health information, assess what support you may need and review your treatment options.  On your next visit, your physician will simulate the radiation treatment to plan your specific therapy.  Your physician will create a plan with the help of a physicist and special computer software that will affect as little normal tissue as possible while treating the entire affected area.  You will be measured and marked with ink and may have to be fitted with a mold to ensure that the correct area is radiated each visit. 

Once your plan is established, your treatments will begin.  You will receive treatments five days a week for three to eight weeks, depending on what type of cancer you have.  Your entire visit will usually take less than half an hour.  Your treatments will be scheduled as conveniently as possible for you, so you can fit them into your everyday schedule. 

You may experience temporary side effects from radiation therapy, but they will only affect the area being treated.  Common side effects include fatigue and skin changes.  Other possible side effects will be discussed with you by your physician and nurse.  While you're receiving treatments, make sure you get proper rest, eat healthy foods an limit your activities to keep up your strength.  Be sure to tell your nurses or physician about any side effects you experience, so they can help you manage your side effects and minimize their impact. 

After you've completed your treatments, you will be scheduled with a series of follow-up visits to check on your progress.  Our goal is to help you recover to your optimal level of health and resume your everyday lifestyle.