At New England Cancer Specialists, our Radiation Oncology Program delivers precise, individualized cancer treatment using external beam radiation therapy. Our goal is to destroy cancer cells while protecting nearby healthy tissue—offering powerful, targeted care with fewer side effects and faster recovery.
We use advanced techniques like IMRT, IGRT, 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy, and SBRT, tailored to the type and location of cancer. Our radiation oncologists work closely with your entire care team to ensure integrated, compassionate support throughout treatment.
Cancers We Treat with Radiation Therapy
- Breast Cancer: Radiation is often used after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. We use IMRT and 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy to treat the breast and lymph nodes while preserving cosmetic outcomes and minimizing damage to the heart and lungs.
- Prostate Cancer: For many patients, radiation offers a non-surgical path to cure. Using IGRT and SBRT, we target the prostate precisely while minimizing side effects related to bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
- Lung Cancer: In early-stage lung cancer or when surgery isn’t an option, SBRT can deliver curative, high-dose treatment in just a few sessions. For more advanced disease, radiation helps shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and improve breathing.
- Head and Neck Cancers: These cancers often affect areas critical to speech and swallowing. Using IMRT, we shape treatment to preserve healthy tissue and vital functions while aggressively targeting the cancer.
- Brain Tumors: Both primary and metastatic brain tumors can be treated with Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), a non-invasive approach offering high precision and minimal recovery time.
- Colorectal and GI Cancers: Radiation can shrink tumors before surgery, reduce recurrence risk, or ease symptoms like pain or bleeding. Our team collaborates closely with your surgical and medical oncology providers.
- Gynecologic Cancers: Radiation therapy is an important tool in the treatment of cervical, uterine, and vulvar cancers, helping to eliminate cancer cells and prevent recurrence using external beam techniques.
- Lymphoma and Skin Cancer: Radiation therapy is highly effective for localized lymphomas and certain skin cancers, especially when surgery isn’t suitable. Treatment is typically well-tolerated and completed in a short series of sessions.
Radiation Techniques We Offer
- IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy): Customizes the shape and intensity of each beam for precise tumor targeting.
- IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy): Uses real-time imaging to guide radiation delivery and account for changes in tumor position.
- SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy): Delivers high-dose radiation in fewer sessions with pinpoint accuracy.
- SRS (Stereotactic Radiosurgery): Offers non-invasive, high-precision treatment for brain and spine tumors.
- 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy: Shapes radiation beams to match the tumor while sparing surrounding tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is radiation therapy and how does it work?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill or damage cancer cells, either as a primary treatment or alongside surgery and chemotherapy.
Does treatment hurt?
No. Radiation therapy is painless and delivered in brief daily sessions. Some patients may experience mild side effects, depending on the treatment area.
How long is the course of treatment?
Treatment duration varies. Some plans involve daily sessions over several weeks, while newer technologies like SBRT may require only a few sessions.
What are the main benefits of radiation therapy?
Radiation helps cure or control cancer, reduce the risk of recurrence, shrink tumors before surgery, and relieve symptoms—all with minimal disruption to daily life.
Is it covered by insurance?
Yes. Radiation therapy is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. Our team will help you navigate any required approvals.
