Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncology is the treatment of cancer and other diseases with radiation. High energy x-rays are used to kill the cancer cells by preventing them from multiplying. Therapeutic radiology may be used to cure or control cancer, or to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with cancer.

The level of radiation will be determined by the radiation oncologist based on the type of cancer, location of the tumor, and sensitivity of the surrounding tissue.

Although each hospital may have specific protocols in place, generally, radiation oncology procedures follow this process:

• Simulation -To help set up the actual treatment, the treatment team first "maps" out the position the patient will be in for each treatment with the aid of molds, headrests, or other devices. Sometimes, the area on the body to be treated will be marked to ensure the radiation will be given in the exact area. In addition, special shields may be made to help focus the radiation and protect surrounding tissue.
   
• Treatment plan - Once the simulation has taken place, the radiation oncologist will determine the exact type of treatment.
   

Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics provide comprehensive radiation therapy services.  These services include consultation, treatment planning, simulation, radiation treatment and appropriate follow-up.

Two radiation oncologists direct care and treatment using state-of-the-art technology and supported by a staff of radiation physicists, dosimetrists, a radiation safety officer, radiation therapists and oncology nurses.

The departments are equipped with three modern linear accelerators. Brachytherapy is provided with various sealed source radioscotopes including Cs-137, Ir-192, I-125, and Pd-103.   Radiopharmaceudical therapy is also available using I-131 and Sr-89.

The department performs Transrectal Ultrasound Guided implants of the prostate using a new ultrasound unit and treatment planning computer. Three dimensional treatment planning using CT is another new tool that is available.

Our Team

Meri Atanas, MD, Radiation Oncology Chair:  (585) 922-4031

Shivaji Deore, PhD, Director Medical Physics: (585) 922-4031

Kathleen Leibenguth, Administrator, Cancer Center: (585) 922-3770

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