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Our Services
Medical OncologyOur medical oncologists have received specialized education and training in the field of medical oncology. They have knowledge and understanding of the latest chemotherapy agents and know which treatments are best suited for specific cancers. The medical oncology team, which is made up of the physicians and oncology certified nurses, provide professional care and education to patients and their families about various forms of cancer and the temporary side effects of cancer treatment.
Radiation TherapyRadiation therapy is the use of high energy x-rays or radioactive materials to kill cancer cells. The term radiation therapy incorporates various techniques, including external and internal radiation. Our radiation oncologists have received on going, specialized training and are capable of over seeing the latest most advanced methods of treatment, including seed implants, high dose brachytherapy and IMRT. Our staff of nurses, therapists and dosimetrists is well qualified in their specific areas of expertise and are available to assist you through out your treatment.
HematologyHematology is the study of blood and blood forming tissues. Our staff of physicians includes doctors who have specialized in treating diseases of the blood.
Prostate Seed ImplantsRadioactive seed implant is an option for treatment of prostate cancer. In order to kill the cancer, the physician will place (implant) 'seeds' into the prostate gland. These radioactive seeds (either Iodine 125 or Palladiium 103) are about the size of a grain of rice and give low energy x-rays which are just right for destroying the cancer in the prostate. Typically 70-150 of the seeds are placed into the prostate gland, depending upon the size of the gland. The entire gland is treated in case there are any undetected areas of cancer within the gland.
The implant procedure is not an operation requiring a surgical incision. Instead, thin needles are passed into the prostate gland through the skin between the scrotum and the rectum. As the needles penetrate through the prostate, they are seen on the screen of the ultrasound machine and can be accurately guided to their final position.
The radioactive seed implant procedure lasts 1 to 1 1/2 hours. It is done in the operating room of an outpatient surgery center and is done either under a spinal or general anesthesia. After the patient has recovered from the anesthesia they may go home.
If you feel you would like to learn more about this procedure, please ask your physician at the time of your first visit. The oncologist will gladly discuss your treatment options, any possible side effects and what will best treat your particular cancer.
MammositeApproximately 250,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed among American women every year. A new procedure called Mammosite is the latest treatment modality available to women who have had a lumpectomy. Normally a lumpectomy is followed by 6 – 7 weeks of full breast radiation. Mammosite is a procedure that is actually partial breast irradiation and involves placement of a balloon catheter into the cavity left by the lumpectomy. A radioactive seed is then placed in the balloon for around 6 minutes allowing a high dose of intense radiation right in the middle of the cavity. No source of radiation stays in the body between treatments or after the procedure. Once the treatment is finished the balloon catheter is deflated and removed. Radiation is delivered by this method twice a day for 5 days. Not all breast cancer patients are candidates for this type of treatment. It usually is not an option for patients with large tumors or those whose cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
IMRTIMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy) is a State of the Art cancer treatment method that delivers high doses of radiation directly to a very specified area of cancer cells. IMRT can deliver higher doses of radiation to a tumor site while sparing more of the surrounding healthy tissue. This technology allows doctors to treat tumors that might have been untreatable in the past due to close proximity of vital organs and structures. Ask one of our oncologists at Willamette Valley Cancer Center if you might be a candidate for this treatment plan.
CounselingMany patients, as well as their family members may benefit from private sessions with one of our counselors. Our counselors are well qualified and have extensive experience in dealing with the many situations that may develop as a result of the diagnosis of cancer. If you need assistance in finding transportation to and from the center, assistance in finding resources within the community, a caregiver, help in financial matters or equipment rentals, our counselors can help you.
Nutritional CounselingNutrition plays an important role in your well being during your fight against cancer. Our licensed dietitian is available to help you address your personal dietary problems or needs.
Support GroupsSharing your experience of a cancer diagnosis with someone who is also living with cancer is often times very helpful. Willamette Valley Cancer Institute offers many support groups where you may interact with other patients. These sessions, conducted by health care professionals, will provide you with information, guidance, and an understanding of living with a cancer diagnosis. Many support groups are also open to family members.
Pharmacy - Eugene SiteOur licensed pharmacist is specially trained to support cancer patients and is available to answer questions concerning drug therapy. Cancer treatment may include systemic chemotherapy. Our pharmacist is knowledgeable in all chemotherapy agents and is responsible for the correct mixing and dispensing of these medications. Retail medications are also available in our pharmacy to allow our patients convenience in filling their prescriptions. Pharmacy hours are 9:00 - 5:00. Phone number is 541-681-4948.
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