Radiation therapy

We use advanced technology to compute the proper dosage of radiation. Our image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) delivers more accurate treatments and reduces exposure to your healthy tissue. We also offer stereotactic radiosurgery, which allows high doses of radiation to be delivered without the need for surgical intervention.

At your consultation, you'll fill out a health questionnaire and undergo an assessment that includes a review of your current symptoms. Your radiation oncologist will then review your history, X-rays, laboratory results, pathology reports and any additional information before performing a complete physical evaluation. Afterwards, you'll participate in a "mapping" process called simulation. A computerized tomography (CT) scan or a series of X-rays are used to construct your radiation treatment plan. During the exam, small marks will be drawn on your skin in order to mark which area should be treated.

After simulation, you will return for another procedure known as verification. This involves a series of X-rays in order to verify that you are in the correct position for the treatment plan to be delivered. Any marks placed during simulation will be "tattooed" during verification or within the first few days of treatment. This process will allow our staff to position you accurately on a daily basis. Verification takes place on digital imaging devices, such as a linear accelerator, for a potentially faster process.

The duration of each treatment course will vary depending on the type of cancer you have and the treatment plan that was developed. Each session you will lie down on the table in the linear accelerator vault to be positioned. The accelerator will move around you during the treatment in order to deliver the radiation to preset locations. You will not feel anything during this time. The machine will make a slight buzzing sound while it operates. Once the treatment is complete you will be assisted off the table and be able to continue on with your normal routine.

Once a week, you will have scheduled time in an exam room following your radiation treatment. You will be evaluated to see how you are managing pain and tolerating your treatment. You will then perform a physical examination. Again, your family is welcome and encouraged to be with you during that time.

Brachytherapy is the process of using radioactive isotopes to treat cancer. In addition to offering external beam radiation, we offer a host of brachytherapy options to aid in the fight against cancer. Your radiation oncologist will determine if brachytherapy is an appropriate course of treatment or should be used in conjunction with external beam radiation. Cancers commonly treated using brachytherapy include prostate, breast, lung and various gynecological cancers.

High-dose rate (HDR) electronic brachytherapy

For certain types of breast, skin or gynecologic cancer, we can use a HDR electronic brachytherapy that exposes your healthy tissues to less radiation. This technology is a more convenient and comfortable alternative to traditional radiation therapy.

As an intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) option, HDR electronic brachytherapy allows you to receive radiation therapy at the same time as a surgical procedure and possibly receive your entire cancer treatment in as little as one day.

Your follow-up appointments are important to your cancer journey. We schedule you one month after the completion of your radiation therapy and then every three to four months for the first two to three years. We will continue to order X-rays, scans, labs or other additional tests, as needed.

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare — a leading provider of cancer care and research — we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (423) 495-1865.