Kennewick, WA Radiation Treatment for Brain Tumors
Receiving a diagnosis of glioblastoma or another type of brain tumor can feel overwhelming, and it’s important to seek the best treatment available. At Northwest Cancer Clinic, we strive to always be at the forefront of advanced technology when it comes to tumor and cancer treatments. If you need radiation treatment for brain tumors, you’ve come to the right place.
Dr. Juno Choe of the Northwest Cancer Clinic has over 15 years of experience in radiation oncology. Coupled with a compassionate and supportive staff, you can trust that you will receive the best care available.
How do Radiation Treatments for Brain Tumors Work?
Radiation treatment for brain tumors uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. For glioblastoma and other brain tumors, radiation treatment can help shrink the tumor, slow its growth, or in some cases even eliminate it entirely. Radiation treatments can be used as the primary treatment for brain tumors, after surgery to help remove any remaining cancer cells, or to help relieve symptoms brain tumors may cause.
There are two types of radiation treatments used for treating brain tumors: external beam radiation therapy, or EBRT for short, and brachytherapy. EBRT is the most common method used. It is a non-invasive method where a machine targets the tumor with rays of energy. Brachytherapy is a radiation treatment in which small seeds of radiation are put inside or near the tumor. For both methods, the goal is to be as precise as possible, maximizing damage to the tumor while minimizing any impact on the healthy tissue surrounding it.
What to Expect During Treatment
EBRT is usually spread out over several weeks, with sessions typically lasting about 15-30 minutes. Patients lie on a treatment table while a machine directs the radiation beams at the tumor. This method is virtually painless, like getting an X-ray, but with more powerful rays specifically designed to combat cancer cells.
This kind of radiation treatment for brain tumors does come with side effects. During treatment, patients may experience short-term effects including fatigue, loss of appetite, hair loss, headaches, and nausea. Long-term effects include mild memory loss or confusion and cataracts. Dr. Choe and our staff strive to make patients as comfortable as possible during treatment and are happy to answer any questions patients have about treatments and possible side effects.
Treatment for Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is one of the most aggressive types of brain tumors, but radiation therapy can be a powerful tool in managing it. Our goal is to improve your quality of life and extend survival. At Northwest Cancer Clinic, we are excited to be providers for the latest technology for treating glioblastoma, Optune Gio.
Optune Gio is a wearable, portable, FDA-approved device designed to treat glioblastoma in adult patients. This treatment has been proven to help people live longer and enjoy a better quality of life.
Why Choose Northwest Cancer Clinic for Radiation Therapy
When it comes to radiation treatment for brain tumors, Northwest Cancer Clinic is at the forefront of technology. We offer more types of radiation treatments than other clinics so we are able to tailor treatments to the unique needs of individual patients.
Besides the excellent treatment patients can receive, our clinic stands out for its service. Our staff genuinely cares for each patient who walks into the clinic, providing support and compassion through this difficult journey.
After receiving a brain tumor diagnosis, it’s important to be able to start radiation treatments as soon as possible. Patients experience much shorter wait times at Northwest Cancer Clinic. We also accept almost all insurance providers, easing the stress of figuring out where to get care. Dr. Choe and the rest of the staff at Northwest Cancer Clinic are ready and waiting to support you through your treatment journey.
