Leading-Edge Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer—it can be used to target cancer cells, relieve symptoms associated with cancer, or prevent cancer from returning. Radiation may be used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, hormones, or targeted therapy.

At Nexus Health, our radiation oncology experts are part of our connected, comprehensive healthcare services. They work alongside our medical and surgical oncologists to deliver an unparalleled continuity of care. We’re proud to offer this unique integrated care model to reduce patient stress and make your care more efficient and effective.

What is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy beams, like X-rays, to target and destroy cancer cells. The treatment is designed to focus on the cancerous area specifically, reducing the chances of affecting the surrounding healthy tissues and organs.

During the therapy, the radiation damages the DNA inside the cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Although some nearby healthy cells might be exposed to the radiation, they have a natural ability to heal and recover over time.

How is Radiation Therapy Administered?

Radiation therapy can be given in multiple ways—external radiation directs high-energy rays into the tumor from outside of the body, while internal radiation, also called brachytherapy, places a radioactive source into the body near the tumor. Based on your cancer type and stage, your cancer team will determine which is the most appropriate and effective approach to treat your cancer.

What are the Benefits of Radiation?

The goals of radiation therapy are varied and depend on the patient and their cancer. Your physician may recommend radiation therapy for any of the below reasons:

• To cure or shrink your early-stage cancer
• To treat symptoms caused by advanced cancer
• To treat cancer that has returned

What Should I Expect During my Radiation Treatment?

Every patient is different, and so is their cancer treatment. While your care team at Nexus Health can answer any questions you may have prior to beginning radiation therapy, here’s what you can generally expect as you begin treatment:

• Before you begin radiation therapy, your care team will plan your treatment with a simulation. You will lie on the imaging scanner in the same position you will be in during treatment. Your team may mark a spot on your skin to help aim the radiation beam.
• Treatment sessions are generally short, lasting only a few minutes. You will not feel the radiation during the treatment. As you receive the radiation, you will be monitored by your radiation therapist. The total number of treatments you receive will be determined by your care team.
• While it’s rare to notice side effects while radiation is being administered, you may experience side effects after treatment. Please talk to your physician about potential side effects for your specific treatment.
• During treatment, you can expect to regularly check in with your radiation oncologist and radiation oncology nurse to evaluate side effects and address any of your concerns.
• After treatment is completed, your physician will schedule follow-up appointments as needed.

Meet Our Providers

Our radiation therapy services are delivered by a compassionate team of experienced healthcare professionals. Our group of board-certified physicians and radiation specialists is dedicated to providing high-quality care.

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