Radiation therapy is treatment with high energy rays such as x-rays. These may be produced by linear accelerators, cobalt, or other radiation sources. Each are used to treat tumors and conditions involving abnormal growths.
The type of therapy most patients receive is external beam therapy. A large machine beams radiation on the tumor and surrounding area from outside the body. Specially-prepared blocks are used to protect the areas which do not need treatment. Radiation may also be given from radiation sources placed inside the body.
Radiation affects all cells. But since most tumor cells are more susceptible than normal cells, they are usually destroyed first. Some tumors may respond to radiation alone. In other cases, radiation therapy is used before and after surgery, or in conjunction with chemotherapy, to kill leftover tumor cells.
Our Radiation Department staff includes:
- Radiation Oncologists
- Radiation Therapy Nurses
- Dosimetrists
- Radiation Therapist Technologists
We have the most advanced equipment available and the leading technology in the area. Some of the specialized equipment used to treat tumors externally include:
- Linear Accelerator - produces radiation from electrical energy
- 3-D Treatment Planning System - used for planning best method of treatment for each patient
In some cases, the radioactive source (an implant) is placed inside the body, near the cancerous tissue, in a process called brachytherapy. The radioactive substance may be radium, iridium, cesium, gold, phosphorus, cobalt, or similar material, in containers called tandems, capsules, needles, or seeds.
Whatever the treatment choice may be, Bluefield Regional Medical Center can help.
For more information, call -- 1-304-327-1570.