Radiation therapy programs offered at Cleveland Clinic Florida include:
- Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT), which allows highly precise radiation delivery to a tumor, while sparing nearby organs.
- A non-invasive radiosurgical option for patients with certain brain tumors which provides results comparable to or better than conventional surgery in many cases.
- 3-D Conformal Radiation Therapy uses CT scans and special computer software to deliver beams of radiation shaped to match the tumor and minimize exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) uses sophisticated computer software to deliver different dose intensities of radiation directly to the tumor or to specific areas, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Radiation Oncologist and other cancer specialists will advise you on the right treatment plan by taking into account your health, age, type of cancer and tolerability of potential side effects.
Radiation options might include:
External Radiation
External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is administered through a machine, which targets a specific area of your body with the radiation. External radiation therapy is usually given five days a week for one to eight weeks, depending on the disease. The daily treatment usually takes only a few minutes.
Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy)
In some instances, internal radiation therapy, also called brachytherapy, is more effective. Brachytherapy involves implanting the source of radiation in and/or around a tumor. The source may be a seed, ribbon or wire and will emit a high dose of radiation to the area to kill cancer cells. Implants can be temporary, remaining for minutes, hours or days, or they can be permanent.
Quality Care
Cleveland Clinic Florida’s cancer program has earned Three-Year Approval with Commendation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. This means patients are assured access to:
- Comprehensive care, including a range of state-of-the-art services and equipment
- A multidisciplinary, team approach to coordinate the best treatment options
- Information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options
- Access to cancer-related information, education and support
- A cancer registry that collects data on type and stage of cancers and treatment results and offers lifelong patient follow-up
- Ongoing monitoring and improvement of care
- Quality care close to home
Support Services
A Radiation Oncology Department Social Worker is available during daytime hours to discuss emotional issues or concerns you may have about your treatment or your personal circumstances. The social worker also can assist with housing and transportation, as well as provide information about support groups.
Cleveland Clinic Florida offers several support groups for patients dealing with cancer.
