Radiation oncology, also known as radiation therapy, is one of the most effective treatment options for breast cancer. It involves using high-energy radiation to kill the malignant cancer cells without harming normal cells. Radiation energy may kill some cancer cells directly, but in most cases, radiation damages the DNA of the cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying or growing. Radiation therapy is generally performed after surgeries to kill the remaining cancer cells, thus minimizing the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Contact us at New England Breast And Wellness for more information about personalized radiation oncology, Boston clients can trust.
Technologies Used for Radiology
CT Simulator
CT simulator is an advanced technology that allows us to produce three-dimensional images of malignant tumors. This allows us to curate the ideal treatment plan for you.
Linear Accelerator
Linear accelerator, also known as a linac, deploys high-energy radiation energy to destroy the cancer cells without damaging the surrounding tissues. It ensures optimal results with minimal side effects and complications.
Types of Radiation Therapy
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is an extremely precise form of radiation therapy that involves using computer-controlled linear accelerators to send precise levels of radiation energy into specific tumors or regions within tumors. This procedure allows the doctor to focus higher doses of radiation energy on the malignant tumor without harming the surrounding tissues.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) involves using specific imaging techniques for high-precision radiation therapy. If you undergo this treatment, the doctor may use imaging technologies, such as CT and MRI scans, to visualize the tumor and then deliver highly targeted beams of radiation energy at it, thus minimizing the harm to surrounding healthy cells.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) uses extremely precise radiation beams to target breast cancer tumors. During this procedure, a specialized device is used to focus beams of radiation on the targeted tumors, with very little radiation affecting the surrounding tissues. The tumor eventually shrinks, and the blood vessels close down, preventing it from growing further.
Side Effects of Radiation Oncology
- Breast soreness
- Redness, swelling, and itching
- Peeling of the skin
- Fatigue
- Breast and skin changes
- Firmness of the breast
- Swelling in the breast
- Lymphedema (fluid accumulation in the arm)
- Nausea (rare)
- Hair loss (rare)
Radiation Oncology in Wellesley, MA
New England Breast and Wellness provides personalized and intimate radiation oncology in Boston, MA. Our radiation oncology team is led by Dr. Katherina Calvillo, a breast cancer specialist and surgeon with nearly 20 years of experience at Harvard and Dana Farber Cancer Institute. She works in coordination with the country’s leading medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and nurses to curate a personalized treatment plan. Please schedule an appointment to learn more about breast cancer treatments in Wellesley, MA.
