What is Radiation Oncology?

Oncology is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, and radiation oncology (or radiation therapy) is the treatment of cancer and other diseases with radiation.

For the procedure, radiation in various forms is used to kill 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.

Therapeutic radiology treatment may be used alone, or in conjunction with other types of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy (the use of anticancer drugs to treat cancerous cells), and/or other treatments.

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

Visit hackensackmeridianhealth.org for more information about Radiation Oncology.

Advanced Treatment Options

At Hackensack Meridian Health, patients have access to a vast scope of radiation oncology services, some of which include:

• Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography (4DCT)
• High Dose Radiation Therapy (HDR)
• State-of-the-art Linear Accelorators with Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
• Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
• Unparalleled experience with CyberKnife®
• Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation with the CONTURA® MLB Catheter
• Xofigo (radium Ra 223 dichloride)

While we often hear the word “experience” and think about the doctor’s professional experience – where they trained, their level of training and how many treatments they have performed each year – it is equally important to think about your own experience.

When you or a loved one are faced with a cancer diagnosis, your focus should be on getting better. With comfortable environments equipped with amenities and access to services like Concierge Care, at Jersey Shore you are able to focus on just that, getting better.

Concierge Care is a complimentary service, available to all patients and guests of the Medical Center, designed to address non-clinical needs, including a variety of services to ease your mind and make your stay more comfortable. Whether you are seeking home care services or need assistance with special dietary needs, our Concierge is here to help our oncology patients and their loved ones when they need it most.