Cochise Oncology

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How Does TomoTherapy® Work?

TomoTherapy® works by combining two cancer-fighting technologies: radiation therapy and CT scanning. The idea is to better target cancerous cells by first scanning them and then irradiating them in a precise manner, leaving healthy tissue intact.

TomoTherapy® allows physicians at Cochise Oncology to verify the location of tumors before each treatment and use optimal levels of radiation. Patients who receive this type of therapy usually experience fewer side-effects and overall better quality of life afterward.

About TomoTherapy®

TomoTherapy® is a cancer treatment that combines existing technologies to generate better patient outcomes: CT scanning and radiation. Physicians use this technology to target specific areas of the body, avoiding the need to blast larger regions in a way that could damage healthy cells.

During TomoTherapy®, patients lie on a comfortable bed, then slide back and forth through a radiation ring. As they move through the scanning area, Cochise Oncology doctors use integrated radiation-emitting devices to eliminate cancer cells that appear on their screens.

TomoTherapy® is painless and similar to getting an X-ray. Afterward, you may experience some short-term effects, including tiredness, skin irritation and hair loss, depending on the location of your cancer. Longer-term side effects start at around two weeks after therapy.

Ultimately, most patients prefer this form of radiotherapy to others because it minimizes the damage to surrounding tissue. This helps to speed recovery while better targeting cancer cells.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

TomoTherapy® Steps

TomoTherapy® involves several steps designed to target tumors as accurately as possible. Physicians at Cochise Oncology first use 3D images and special software to characterize the shape of the cancerous lesions in your body. They then use the data they collect to determine the strength and intensity of radiation required to eliminate cancerous cells.

Next, they double-check the size, position, and orientation of tumors before administering radiation using the TomoTherapy Hi·Art System®. Re-characterizing the location is helpful since tumors can move or change shape day-to-day. At the end of the process, the physician is confident that they can target the right areas.

The final step is applying radiation. TomoTherapy® does this using a combination of intensity-modulated radiation therapy and full 360-delivery. The treatment surrounds your body, allowing physicians to direct radiation from specific angles, achieving greater accuracy and avoiding damaging off-target tissues.

Am I a Candidate for TomoTherapy®?

If your oncologist has told you that you have cancerous tumors in your body, you could be a candidate for TomoTherapy®. The procedure treats a variety of cancers, including those of the lung, neck, head, brain, and prostate. It is also suitable for targeting recurring cancers, metastases, and secondary cancers.

Treatment typically lasts around 20 minutes, including both the initial scan and the delivery of radiotherapy. Around half of the time, you spend undergoing treatment involves identifying and characterizing tumors. The rest consists of eliminating them from your body.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about TomoTherapy®? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!

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