Condition we treat: Gastrointestinal cancer
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers can be effectively treated with proton therapy. Our center uses this type of therapy to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the cancerous cells, while sparing healthy tissues and critical areas such as the liver, kidneys, small bowel, and stomach.
What Are the Benefits of Proton Therapy for GI Cancers?
Proton therapy can help reduce radiation exposure to healthy tissues and critical areas, potentially leading to fewer short- and long-term side effects. However, it’s important to note that proton therapy is not recommended for all types of GI tumors and should not replace surgery as the primary treatment for most common GI cancers.
Types of GI Cancers We Treat with Proton Therapy
- Esophageal Cancer: Treating esophageal cancer with radiation can be difficult due to its close location to important parts of the body like the heart, lungs, and spinal cord. Proton therapy can be an excellent choice for treating esophageal cancer as it delivers the highest dose of radiation to the area of concern while minimizing exposure to critical structures and reducing the risk of side effects.
- Primary Liver Cancer: For patients with primary liver cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, proton therapy can help treat the tumor more safely and effectively, especially for those with underlying liver damage from cirrhosis or previous treatments.
- Anal Cancer: Anal cancer: a type of squamous cell carcinoma found near the opening of the gut, is usually treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Unlike many other types of gastrointestinal cancer, surgery is not the main option for this type of cancer. Proton therapy provides a safer alternative to regular radiation therapy by minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and reducing side effects.
- Recurrent GI Cancers: It can be difficult to treat areas that have already received radiation, especially in the gastrointestinal area. Another round of X-ray treatment may be risky because the healthy tissues near the recurring tumor don’t completely “forget” the earlier radiation dose, and any extra dose increases the chance of harm to normal tissues. Proton therapy is a good choice for treating recurring GI cancers that have already been treated with radiation because it reduces exposure to normal tissues and lessens the damage to the bowel, liver, kidneys, bladder, and bone marrow.
It is important to discuss your case with a specialist to understand what treatment options are available and which one would be best for you. Contact us to schedule a consultation and determine if proton therapy is a suitable choice.