Radiation Oncology at Southwest Cancer Care
At Southwest Cancer Care, our Radiation Oncology Department is committed to delivering precision radiation therapy to patients in Sierra Vista and throughout Cochise County. We focus on providing highly effective, targeted treatments while prioritizing your comfort, well-being, and convenience. From initial consultation to treatment completion, our goal is to provide exceptional care tailored to your individual needs.
Our Diagnostic Imaging Services
- PET-CT Imaging: Integrating PET-CT scans for precise treatment planning and monitoring of treatment response.
Advanced Treatment Options
We offer a complete spectrum of radiation therapy services:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy: Delivering targeted radiation from outside the body.
- Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Utilizing advanced imaging to ensure accurate radiation delivery.
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): Shaping the radiation beam to conform precisely to the tumor.
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): Delivering high doses of radiation to small, well-defined tumors.
- 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy: Tailoring the radiation beam to the shape of the tumor in three dimensions.
Precision and Expertise
What distinguishes our Radiation Oncology Department
Frequently asked questions
PET-CT scans provide detailed metabolic information about your tumor, enabling our team to precisely target the cancerous tissue while sparing healthy organs.
Radiation therapy can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, including lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, head and neck cancers, and many others.
Side effects can vary depending on the treatment area and the type of radiation used. Our team will discuss potential side effects with you before treatment begins and provide strategies to manage them effectively.
Radiation oncology is a medical specialty that uses targeted radiation therapy to treat cancer and other diseases.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Yes, it is carefully planned and delivered to minimize side effects and protect healthy tissues. Your care team will monitor you throughout treatment.
Your first visit will include a consultation with a radiation oncologist, a review of your medical history, and a discussion about your treatment options.
Your care team will perform imaging scans (such as CT, MRI, or PET scans) to create a precise treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment duration varies based on the type of cancer and the treatment plan, but it can range from a single session to several weeks with each treatment lasting approximatively 15-20 minutes.
Radiation therapy itself is painless, similar to getting an X-ray. However, some side effects may develop over time.
Side effects depend on the area being treated but may include fatigue, skin irritation, nausea, and changes in appetite. Your doctor will help manage any side effects.
Hair loss only occurs in the area receiving radiation. If your head is treated, hair loss may occur in that specific region.
Many patients continue working, but it depends on how you feel and any side effects you experience. Your doctor can provide guidance.
Use mild soap, avoid harsh chemicals, wear loose clothing, and protect treated areas from the sun. Your care team will discuss further skin care upon starting treatment and throughout treatment course.
External radiation therapy does not make you radioactive. However, some internal radiation therapies (brachytherapy) may require precautions for a short time.
You will have follow-up visits to monitor your recovery, assess treatment effectiveness, and manage any long-term side effects.