Radiation Oncology

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What is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, x-ray therapy, or irradiation, is one of the most common treatments for breast cancer. It uses regulated doses of high-energy radiation to target and kill cancer cells. Depending on the stage of breast cancer, radiation therapy may be used following lumpectomy, after mastectomy, or if cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

Who Should Get Radiation Therapy?

In some cases, radiation therapy is the only cancer treatment required, and sometimes it is used along with other forms of treatment. Ultimately, the decision to use radiation therapy will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as other health conditions that you might have.

Board-Certified Surgeon

MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS

Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.

More About Dr. Ley

Types of Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

There are two main types of radiation therapy that can be used to treat breast cancer, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

This is the most common form of radiation therapy for breast cancer. During this treatment, a machine focuses the radiation on the area affected by cancer. The specific area that requires radiation will depend on whether you underwent a lumpectomy or mastectomy, and if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes nearby. EBRT is usually not begun until after your surgery site has healed. If you are receiving chemotherapy, radiation treatment may be delayed until chemotherapy is complete.

Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is also known as internal radiation. During this treatment, a device that contains a radioactive pellet is placed into the breast tissue for a short time in the area where the cancer has been removed.

“The level of care is excellent.”

Dr. Ley is extremely good at explaining your breast cancer, treatment options, and everything she is going to do. She is a masterful surgeon and uses plastic techniques to close incisions, leaving minimal scarring. In addition, she is warm, pleasant, and a lovely person. I am so happy that I found her based on a friend’s recommendation. I can’t say enough about her and the practice’s excellent care.

Dr. Ley is an excellent doctor who cares about her patients. She takes the time to explain everything and provides all options. The level of care is excellent.

Contact Us Today

For more information regarding radiation oncology, please contact Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson, AZ today. Our team is here to assist you along your breast health journey.

Sources:

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types/radiation/basics.htmlhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/treatment/radiation-for-breast-cancer.html

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