Radiation oncology: Why choose us?

BJC HealthCare works with Washington University physicians, BJC Medical Group, and providers across the region to deliver extraordinary care. Siteman Cancer Center and the Missouri Baptist Cancer Center are two programs accessible through BJC HealthCare. Radiation oncology is often a critical part of a cancer treatment plan. And It matters where you receive radiation oncology treatment. We provide exceptional radiation therapy through our:

  • Multidisciplinary team: Our board-certified radiation oncologists work with physicians and cancer biologists who specialize in radiation therapy. This expert team is highly experienced in delivering the most effective dose that targets cancer while avoiding healthy tissue.

  • Advanced technology: Our cancer centers are equipped with the latest technology to deliver proven radiotherapy care. We provide advanced treatments like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which targets tumors using highly detailed 3D imaging.

  • Customized care: Our experts evaluate your health history and the tumor type, size and location before creating your radiation therapy plan. We also closely track your progress so we can adjust your therapy to achieve the best outcome.

  • Nurse navigators: Cancer treatment can be overwhelming, so we provide the support you deserve. You receive a dedicated nurse navigator who schedules your appointments, answers your questions and connects you with helpful resources.

  • Compassion and support: Your physical and emotional well-being is our priority. Whether you’re experiencing side effects or need mental health care, our team listens and provides the support you deserve.

When Work Hits Home

A BJC radiotherapy service engineer repaired the machine that later delivered lifesaving radiation treatment to his son.

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What is radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, uses radioactive beams of energy to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can shrink tumors, stop them from growing or destroy them completely. Usually, you need multiple radiation therapy sessions over several weeks for full results.

Older radiotherapy methods were less precise and would damage healthy cells around the tumor, causing more severe side effects. We use advanced radiation therapy techniques that greatly reduce damage to your surrounding healthy tissue.

Our team is here to listen and provide care for your physical and emotional needs throughout your treatment. Our social workers can help you with school or work challenges, transportation or other daily needs. Our physicians prescribe medications to help you feel better, such as anti-nausea medicines. And our behavioral health team treats depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions that can occur with cancer.

What types of cancer can be treated with radiation therapy?

Many cancers can be treated with radiotherapy, either alone or with other treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy. In fact, more than half of all people with cancer receive radiation therapy as part of their treatment.

What types of radiation therapy do we provide?

Our radiation oncology specialists select a radiation therapy technique that fits your treatment needs. We are skilled in using this treatment to shrink tumors before cancer surgery, stop cancer recurrence (keep cancer from coming back) and treat existing cancer, either alone or with other treatments like chemotherapy and surgical oncology.

Your radiation therapy may come in the form of:

Brachytherapy
This treatment delivers radiation inside your body. Your treatment may be a small capsule, ribbon or seed placed inside or near the tumor. Your radiation oncology team will explain what to expect during your brachytherapy procedure.
External beam radiation
A machine called a linear accelerator aims high-energy rays into the tumor from outside your body. For this treatment, you attend regular appointments at a cancer center for several weeks. Our team explains what to expect at your radiation therapy appointments, and we focus on preventing or minimizing side effects.
Locations

Schedule your appointment

Call  (314) 362-9355  or  (800) 392-0936  to schedule your appointment with a specialist.

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