Cochise Oncology

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What is Adaptive Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is one of the best treatment solutions for patients diagnosed with cancerous tumors. It can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment. However, patient anatomy can change during treatment, particularly in the abdomen with the contents of the stomach, bladder, and bowels. Tumors can also change in size. Adaptive Radiation Therapy (ART) gives the cancer specialists at Cochise Oncology the ability to deliver precise dosages to the exact tumor location and margins on a daily basis, regardless of changes to patient anatomy.

How is Adaptive Radiation Therapy?

Some organs change size and shape daily, some weekly over the course of cancer treatment. Adaptive Radiation Therapy is designed to give your Cochise specialists a way to deliver your treatment through image guided radiation therapy (IGRT). Images are taken immediately before and during radiation application so the exact dosage and position of radiation necessary can be delivered. This precision delivery increases patient safety and radiotherapy accuracy for the most aggressive cancer treatment we can offer. Abdominal anatomy is particularly variable, so treatment margins are extremely important so as not to unnecessarily impact healthy tissues nearby. Your Cochise team includes radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, medical physicists, and a supporting team of nurses and other health practitioners whose only goal is to guide you through your ART treatments.

Am I a Good Candidate?

ART is used to treat patients with cancers of the brain, head, neck, eye, thyroid, breast, lung, bladder, prostate, cervix, and skin. For a comprehensive evaluation to see if ART is right for you, schedule a consultation with Cochise Oncology specialists.

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.

What Types of Adaptive Radiation Therapy Are There?

TomoTherapy® delivers cancer treatment using CT-image technology, which allows the radiation beam to be adjusted for exacting size, location, and intensity. At the start of each treatment, 3D imaging software defines the tumor’s margins and other measurements, which are used to calculate the precise radiation levels, positioning, and delivery of the radiation. TomoTherapy® targets prostate cancer, brain, head and neck, and lung tumors. It can also treat secondary cancers, metastases, and recurring cancers.

Varian Trilogy Radiotherapy takes aim at head and neck, thyroid, breast, bladder, prostate, and cervical cancers by damaging the DNA of the cancerous cells. The accuracy of the Varian treatment allows for stronger doses in fewer sessions for faster treatment. Treatment is complete in just a few minutes. The improvement of precision delivery minimizes side effects for a more comfortable treatment.

Xoft® Radiation Therapy is primarily for skin cancers. The tiny X-ray source allows for treatment in anatomically challenging locations like the face, scalp, or ears. Xoft® is a nearly painless, scar-free treatment for skin cancer ideal for patients who cannot have surgery for various reasons. Electronic Brachytherapy (eBx)brings radiation closer to the cancerous target while protecting surrounding tissues with the FlexiShield. This minimally-invasive treatment doesn’t require anesthesia or much, if any downtime. Patients attend a series of in-office visits over several weeks, and then the therapy is complete.

Having a cancer diagnosis is enough to frighten anyone and disrupt their life. At Cochise Oncology, we have a dedicated and seasoned team of experts and a support staff of compassionate professionals who make your comfort our top priority. With the precision available with Adaptive Radiation Therapy, we can accurately and aggressively target your cancer while minimizing any damage to your healthy tissues. We’re here to see you through this with answers to your questions, guidance through your cancer therapies, and emotional support to help with anything else you may need.

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 Adaptive Radiation Therapy? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!