|
Radiation Oncology
Radiation Therapy is another important weapon in your battle against cancer. This procedure uses high-energy waves – like X-rays – to treat your cancer. It is also called RT, radiotherapy, X-ray therapy, cobalt treatment or irradiation. This type of therapy can:
- Control certain cancers and other diseases
- Prolong your life by stopping the growth of tumors.
- Ease your suffering by reducing pressure and relieving pain.
As the diseased area is exposed to high-energy rays, all surrounding cells are affected. Your healthy cells recover quickly, while diseased cells are damaged or destroyed and stop reproducing. Repeated treatment over a period of time allows your healthy cells to completely recover, while diseased cells cannot.
Radiation is usually administered externally using:
- X-rays
- gamma rays
- electron beams
Your treatment plan may call for radiation to be given:
- internally
- orally
- intravenously
- implanted temporarily
- implanted permanently
Radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors and reduce bleeding, or after surgery to stop the growth of any remaining tumor cells. Radiation may also be paired with drug or hormone therapy.
To learn more about Radiation Oncology, call 269-382-2500.
|
Breast Cancer Clinic
