Radiation oncology is the use of high-energy X-rays, called radiation, as a method for treating cancerous tumors by destroying cancer cells. Radiation therapy, used alone or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy, remains an integral component in the management and treatment of cancer. The radiation may come from a machine outside the body (linear accelerator) or brachytherapy (radioactive material sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or small tubes), placed directly into or near the tumor.

A radiation oncologist is a physician who treats cancer through radiation therapies. When used prior to other procedures, radiation shrinks a cancer tumor to increase the effectiveness of surgery or chemotherapy. When used successive to other procedures, radiation destroys existing cancer cells.

Radiation Oncology at SSCC
Three board-certified radiation oncologists provide external beam radiation services at the center. Our experienced radiation oncologists and therapists work closely with other in-house specialists to determine the best course of treatment for each patient.

The technology centerpiece at the cancer center is the linear accelerator, which is capable of delivering radiation in a variety of methods to ensure the destruction of cancer cells. One method, Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), provides clinicians with greater accuracy and enables pinpointing high doses of radiation to specific cancer sites, while minimizing exposure to surrounding normal, healthy tissue.

Contact
Cancer Resource Center, 707-554-5326
Radiation Oncology Manager, 707-554-5122
Director of Cancer Services, 707-554-5094

Radiation Oncologists
Chris Anderson, M.D., 707-551-3400
James Knister, M.D., 707-551-3400
Patricia L. Seid, M.D., 707-551-3400