Radiation therapy is a highly effective and targeted cancer therapy that is used in 70 percent of all cancer patients. Revolutionary advances in Radiation Oncology have been made over the past 10-15 years. More precise and targeted therapy delivery and improvements in imaging help physicians spare normal tissues to a greater degree than in past years. Radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, such as surgery or chemotherapy, or can be used as the sole treatment modality.

Novalis® Stereotactic Radiosurgery
One of the latest technologic improvements has been the introduction of Novalis®shaped beam surgery, an advanced radiation treatment delivery system. The Novalis unit is able to deliver a carefully-shaped and highly precise dose of high-energy radiation to treat tumors in the brain, lung, spinal column and other parts of the body. The radiation beams are shaped to match the exact contour of the tumor or lesion so that even irregularly shaped tumors or lesions can receive doses of radiation while avoiding damage to critical, adjacent structures. Read more

CALYPSO
The Calypso 4D Localization System pinpoints the location of prostate cancers as accurately as a Global Positioning System (GPS) can locate your car. After participating in the clinical trial, The Nebraska Medical Center is the only center in the region now using the Calypso technology. Read more

INTRABEAM

Intrabeam low-energy radiation therapy, which has been FDA-approved, can offer two advantages to traditional radiation therapy, says Dr. Robert Thompson, medical director of xyz. First, it provides a targeted dose of radiation therapy to the surgicalsite at the time of surgery, rather than delivering total breast radiation. Secondly, it may eliminate the six-week daily regimen of radiation therapy that normally accompanies lumpectomy without compromising the outcome. Read more

IMRT

Intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) allows radiation to be delivered more precisely to fit the tumor. Using computers and imaging techniques that show the size, shape and location of the tumor, the radiation beam can be adjusted to give a higher, more exact dose of radiation to the tumor, sparing normal tissue and potentially increasing the chance of a cure. The IMRT program at The Nebraska Medical Center continues to expand its reach, treating a variety of cancer diseases, attracting patients both locally and regionally.

BRACHYTHERAPY
Brachytherapy is a form of radiation that involves the placement of radioactive sources into a tumor or in an area where a tumor was removed. This technique allows for the delivery of high doses of radiation therapy while simultaneously sparing normal tissue. Brachytherapy is often used to treat prostate, gynecologic and breast malignancies. The xyz high dose rate unit at the Nebraska Medical Center allows for some brachytherapy procedures to be performed in the outpatient setting, increasing patient convenience, especially for patients from outside the Omaha area.

IGRT
Image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) is the use of treatment room imaging modalities (i.e. X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans, and Calypso) to precisely target a tumor for daily radiation treatment. Using image guidance for tumors affected by organ motion and day to day set up changes can lead to increased tumor response and/or decreased side effects from treatment.

EDUCATION
The radiation oncology department remains committed to educating students in radiation oncology. The Radiation Therapy Technology Program for therapists and the certificate program in medical physics for masters and doctoral level physicists are addressing the national shortage in these areas. The expertise and technology housed in the department provide a comprehensive experience in preparing these students for the future.

RESEARCH
Advancing research in Radiation Oncology is a primary goal of the department at the Nebraska Medical Center. The department has participated in the FDA approval study for the Calypso system, refined techniques for use of radioimmuno-conjugates for therapeutic purposes, designed new software applications for accurate radiation dosing, and enhancing clinical strategies in the delivery of radiation that limits side effects. The department has also participated and developed institutional protocols and will be joining the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG), allowing patients to participate in the latest clinical trials for radiotherapy. These types of research collaborations make it possible for The Nebraska Medical Center to lead the fight against cancer.

For Physician Referrals or more information on radiation oncology call 1-800-922-0000