Overview

The Department of Radiation Oncology participates in national and international research efforts. Patients are offered the choice of participation in state-of-the-art clinical research efforts through:

• Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG)
• Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG)
• National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP)

These Cooperative Group Studies include determining the value of combined chemo-radiotherapy for cancers of the lung, head and neck, breast and gastrointestinal system, prostate and gynecological cancers. Dose escalation for various cancers (lung, rectum, etc.) utilizing three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, and IMRT.

The Department of Radiation Oncology currently has several ongoing studies using High Dose Rate (HDR) brachytherapy for gynecology and breast tumors, CT and PET fusion studies specific for lung, head, neck and gastrointestinal tumors:

We are currently participating in a national study with the NSABP and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group in evaluating standard breast radiation versus partial breast radiation and RTOG protocols involving stereotactic body radiotherapy for lung cancer.

We currently employ a dedicated team of Physicians, Physicists, Therapists, and Nurses. Our staff are published in both National and International Journals.

Questions regarding research studies can be directed to our full-time dedicated Research Nurse Beth Chiappetta at 708-216-2568.