At Cochise Oncology, we deliver first-class cancer treatment to Sierra Vista, as well as throughout southeast Arizona. From our free hospitality housing to our spa-like environment, our priority is delivering patient-focused radiation and chemotherapy treatment in a non-hospital setting. We also use the latest in cutting-edge technology. Here we introduce TomoTherapy®, an innovative form of radiation therapy, and explain how it can help patients.

What is TomoTherapy®

TomoTherapy®  is a revolutionary new way to deliver cancer treatment. The system is an integrated treatment planner, precision patient positioner, and targeted radiation beam. Using CT-image technology, our Sierra Vista team can adjust the beam for precisely the right size, location, and intensity to treat the patient tumor.

What Does TomoTherapy® Treat?

Our TomoTherapy® team can use this versatile equipment to treat tumors via a precision-targeted means of radiation therapy.  The treatment is used for many forms of cancers but is commonly used for prostate cancer, brain, head and neck, and lung tumors. Here at Cochise Oncology, we also use it to treat secondary cancers, metastases, and recurring cancers. It is successful in these instances as patients may have reached a maximum dose of radiation during their initial cancer treatment.

How Does TomoTherapy® Work?

For TomoTherapy® treatment you can expect the following:

  • Your physician will use the 3D imaging software to define the tumor shape and location.
  • They will then calculate the correct radiation levels, positioning, and decide how the radiation will best be delivered.
  • During the initial scan, you will lay on the couch and move through the scanner as the images are taken.
  • This scan will be undertaken at the start of every treatment to ensure the tumor shape hasn’t changed.
  • The radiation is delivered in a spiral delivery from all angles, which means the tumor is targeted precisely.
  • You will move through the scanner again a second time more slowly as the treatment is delivered.
Tomotherapy Sierra Vista

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.

How Should I Prepare for My Treatment?

You might be asked to remove some clothing or personal items before your treatment takes place in Sierra Vista. Before you start your treatment, the Cochise Oncology team will book an initial appointment and take a CT-simulation to plan the best treatment method for you. Our team is on-hand to answer any questions you have about the process.

How Long Will My Treatment Last?

TomoTherapy® treatments take place daily, from Monday to Friday. Patients travel from across Arizona, including New Mexico, for treatment. The number of treatments will vary depending on each individual. It will generally take about 20 minutes, including the time taken for both the initial image scan and treatment. About half the time is spent on set-up and analyzing images, while the rest is spent on scanning and treatment.

What are the Side Effects?

The treatment is similar to having an X-Ray and is painless. The side effects are similar to other radiation therapies and can cause short-term side effects. These can include tiredness and skin irritation and may affect the specific area of the body you are receiving cancer treatment for (e.g., hair loss for brain cancers). In general, side effects can take effect from around two weeks after treatment begins.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

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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.