Radiation Oncology
The Illinois Regional Cancer Center (IRCC) is an outpatient radiation therapy center dedicated to excellence in all aspects of patient care related to radiation. The center treats all types of cancerous tumors. Radiation oncology may be part of an individualized cancer treatment plan in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Staffed by an experienced and compassionate team of cancer physicians and support staff, we use cutting edge oncology treatments and strive to keep patients as informed and comfortable as possible.
Patients are evaluated using specialized computers that create diagnostic images of the cancerous areas in the body. Radiation therapy is used to radiate only the cancerous area while sparing healthy, surrounding tissue. Patients are usually scheduled daily for a determined length of time, over a period of weeks based on an individualized treatment plan. Types of Treatments Offered
3-D conformal treatment planning - three dimensional conformal treatment planning provides computer images to show the size, shape and location of the tumor allowing the physician to shape the radiation beams to the tumor shape and size.
PET/CT and MRI/CT fusion - Fusion software allows two images to be fused together for more accurate planning and radiation treatment. PET/CT and MRI/CT fusion allows the radiation oncologist to better outline the tumor and localize treatment more efficiently, and in some cases reduces side effects and improves survival.
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) - provides the ability to decrease or eliminate side effects to surrounding tissues and organs. IMRT may also allow for a higher dose of radiation to the tumor, which may increase the chances of completely destroying the tumor.
IGRT - provides for a more precise treatment using diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or x-rays, prior to each radiation treatment. Cancerous tumors and organs can move day to day. For example, how full or empty the bladder and rectum are can change the position of the prostate drastically. IGRT allows adjustments to be made to allow for the most accurate treatment possible. This can possibly decrease side effects and increase tumor dose, which can also increase the chance for a cure.
The team consists of physician, physicists and radiation therapists each contributing to the planning and treatment for the patient.
For questions about Radiation treatment, please visit the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology's website: www.rtanswers.org/treatment/external_beam.htm
