Radiation therapy
An oncologist is a type of doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer. One type of treatment an oncologist may use is radiation therapy, which destroys cancer cells through beams of strong energy.
Radiation therapy services in Austin and Central Texas
Our specialized team will create an individualized care plan with recovery and follow-up services tailored to your needs.
Together with Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute, the radiation oncologists at St. David's HealthCare use advanced technology to provide you with precise cancer treatments. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with other types of treatment options, including surgery and chemotherapy.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy is a form of cancer treatment that involves directing beams of high-dose radiation to kill cancer cells in the body. Radiation is also used to shrink tumors.
During therapy, the beams are aimed at precise locations in the body to directly target areas with cancer cells, sparing healthy cells and body tissue.
Types of radiation therapy
When it comes to treatment, everyone has unique needs. That is why we offer a highly personalized approach to radiation therapy. Our radiation therapy specialists will take the time to carefully review your case, talk to you about what to expect from your treatment and create an individualized treatment plan.
Your physician will typically choose from two general types of radiation therapy—brachytherapy and external beam radiation therapy. They may also suggest using a combination of both therapies to treat your specific type of cancer.
- Brachytherapy — Brachytherapy is the internal application of a radiation source. During brachytherapy, the radiation source is implanted directly into the tissue.
- External beam radiation — During external beam radiation, beams of high-energy X-rays are delivered externally.
What to expect with radiation therapy
Once your oncologist has confirmed a cancer diagnosis, you will meet with a radiation oncologist for a consultation. During this consultation, your doctor will provide a physical examination and discuss different types of radiation therapy to see which, if any, will be an effective option for your unique situation.
If radiation therapy is decided upon as part of your cancer care, you will set up an appointment for a computed tomography (CT) scan to determine the areas to target for radiation. A dosimetrist, a member of the radiation oncology team who controls radiation dosage, will review your information and design a custom treatment plan.
During your course of radiation therapy, our oncology team will be available at all times to assist you with any needs.
About Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute
As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.
askSARAH helpline
Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (512) 840-6032 or chat online on Sarah Cannon's askSARAH page.
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