Resources

Cancer Care during the Holidays

December 16, 2024 - The holiday season may seem like the worst time to have an illness in the family. Even the warmest of traditions lose their luster when you are worried about your healthcare needs or those of someone you love. If you or someone close to you has cancer, use these eight…

Treating Lung Cancer with TrueBeam STx Technology

November 21, 2024 - According to the American Lung Association, lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in both men and women in the United States and causes more deaths than colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers combined. Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. These abnormal cells…

Think Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October 17, 2024 - This past year, over 300,000 women in the U.S. were diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers diagnosed each year. With October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is a great…

Prostate Cancer Awareness: Knowledge is Power

September 24, 2024 - Prostate cancer is more than just a medical condition; it’s a life-changing diagnosis that affects not only the individual but their loved ones as well. Here at CAMC Radiation Oncology Services, we believe that understanding the nuances of prostate cancer can empower men to take proactive steps toward their health.…

July is National Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month

July 8, 2024 - July is National Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month.  The purpose of the month is to raise awareness of the dangers of UV radiation and spread the word about how important it is to protect everyone’s skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Ultraviolet radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation…

Treating Lung Cancer with TrueBeam STx Technology

June 14, 2024 - According to the American Lung Association, lung cancer remains the leading cancer killer in both men and women in the United States, causing more deaths than colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers combined. An estimated 127,070 Americans are expected to die from lung cancer in 2024, accounting for approximately 23 percent…

The Importance of Getting a Second Opinion in Cancer Treatment

April 26, 2024 - Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and it’s crucial to make informed decisions about your treatment options. A recent article from CancerConnect.com, a patient-focused cancer website, emphasizes the significance of seeking a second opinion after an initial diagnosis. At CAMC Radiation Oncology, we strongly advocate for this practice to…

The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Care

March 11, 2024 - We all know that good nutrition is important for good health. This statement is even truer for cancer patients. Eating the right kinds of foods before, during, and after cancer treatment can help patients feel better and stay stronger. The Role of a Dietitian Sometimes a registered dietitian, or nutritionist,…

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to help you find the answers you need

 

General Questions

Where are you located?
We are conveniently located in West Virginia, within the CAMC Cancer Center, making it especially accessible for patients undergoing multiple treatment options. Our center offers free onsite parking and is fully wheelchair-accessible, ensuring ease and comfort for all our patients.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Please complete the webform on this page, and our team will be in touch to answer your questions and discuss the next steps.
What resources do you have available for patients?
At CAMC Radiation Oncology, part of the CAMC Cancer Center in West Virginia, we provide a holistic approach to cancer care. Our community of dedicated care providers supports you and your family throughout your journey, from treatment to survivorship and beyond. We offer comprehensive patient education and detailed guidelines to help you understand radiation therapy. Additionally, we work closely with local organizations to provide free support services, ensuring that you have all the resources you need during your cancer treatment and recovery.
 

TrueBeam® Radiotherapy

What is the TrueBeam radiotherapy system?
TrueBeam is a non-invasive radiosurgery system used to treat cancerous tumors and other medical conditions with precision and accuracy. It utilizes advanced image-guided technology to destroy targeted cells with exceptional accuracy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
What type of radiotherapy does the TrueBeam system use?
TrueBeam offers many different types of advanced treatment techniques including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).
How does the TrueBeam system work?
The TrueBeam system incorporates real-time imaging tools and rotating components to deliver a prescribed radiation dosage to a tumor from multiple angles and with enhanced accuracy and speed.
What conditions can be treated with the TrueBeam system?
The TrueBeam system can treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to, cancers of the:
Spine
Neck
Chest
Lung
Prostate
Pancreas
Liver
Is the TrueBeam system appropriate for all patients?
While the TrueBeam system can be utilized for a wide range of patients, it is particularly beneficial for individuals with tumors or lesions that are challenging to access through conventional surgical methods. Moreover, it is a suitable alternative for patients who may not be eligible for surgery due to factors like their overall health status or the tumor's specific location.
What are some of the advanced features of the TrueBeam system?
The TrueBeam system stands out from other systems due to several unique features:

Real-time imaging: An advanced motion management package makes it possible to better compensate for tumor motion during treatment.

Faster treatment: With a rapid dose rate, it offers stereotactic treatments in nearly half the time when compared to other systems that can take well over an hour per session.

Increased comfort: The six degrees (6D) of freedom treatment couch provides the accuracy, precision and flexibility needed to optimally position and adjust patients, allowing them to be comfortable and breathe freely during treatment.
What are some key advantages for patients offered by the TrueBeam system?
Patients can benefit from several key factors associated with the TrueBeam system, including:
No surgery
No anesthesia
No hospital stay
No pain
No rehabilitation
No risk of bleeding or infection
No head frame
Minimal to no side effects
Quick return to normal everyday life
Shorter treatment program compared to conventional radiotherapy
 

TrueBeam® Treatment

Is the TrueBeam treatment covered by insurance?
The coverage for the TrueBeam treatment may vary depending on your insurance plan and the specific medical condition being treated. It is recommended to consult with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
What is the typical duration of a treatment session with the TrueBeam system?
The length of a treatment session can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the targeted area. On average, sessions are typically completed within the same week, taking only 1 – 5 sessions. Each session lasts less than an hour, which helps patients to quickly get in and out of treatment and allowing them to resume their lives.
Does the TrueBeam system cause any pain?
The TrueBeam system is typically painless as it is a non-invasive treatment method that does not involve incisions or invasive procedures. While patients may experience some discomfort from maintaining a still position during the treatment session, anesthesia is not necessary.
Are there any side effects with the TrueBeam system?
Generally, the TrueBeam system is gentle and well tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, it's possible for some patients to experience temporary effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, or mild nausea. These side effects are typically short-lived and tend to resolve on their own.
What is the level of effectiveness associated with the TrueBeam system?
The TrueBeam system has demonstrated impressive tumor control rates and comparable survival rates to alternative treatment methods. However, the effectiveness of the treatment depends on the unique circumstances of each case and the specific condition being addressed. To accurately evaluate your individual situation, we recommend scheduling a consultation with us.
How does the tumor react after treatment with the TrueBeam system?
During radiation treatment, the tumor is effectively eradicated by precisely delivering high-dose radiation to the targeted area. This radiation works by damaging the DNA within the tumor cells, thereby inhibiting their ability to divide and proliferate. As time progresses, the affected cells gradually lose their capability to survive and reproduce, ultimately resulting in the destruction of the tumor.

It's important to note that certain tumors may exhibit signs of recurrence or progression. Thus, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the tumor's status and make informed decisions regarding further treatment or management.
 

Radiation Therapy

Who determines if I am a good candidate for radiotherapy?
As a patient, the decision regarding the suitability of radiosurgery as a treatment option is made by a team of qualified medical professionals. They evaluate your unique case, considering factors such as the nature of your condition, the location of the tumor, and your overall health. Based on their assessment, they provide an expert recommendation, guiding you towards the most appropriate course of treatment.
How does stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) differ from conventional radiation therapy?
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) differs from conventional radiation therapy by utilizing multiple beams that converge precisely at the tumor site from various angles. This targeted approach allows for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered to the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. As a result, SRT reduces the risk of side effects. Additionally, SRT typically requires fewer treatment sessions than conventional radiation therapy, making it a more time-efficient option.
What is the difference between Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT), Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are all forms of precise and targeted radiation therapy.

Here are the key differences between them:

Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT): SRT refers to the broader category of treatments that use precise imaging and targeting techniques to deliver radiation to tumors with high accuracy. It can be used to treat tumors in various locations throughout the body, including the brain.

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): SBRT is a specific type of SRT that focuses on treating tumors in the body outside of the brain. It delivers a highly concentrated dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to nearby healthy tissues. SBRT is typically administered in a few treatment sessions, usually between 1 and 8.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): SRS is a form of SRT that specifically targets tumors in the brain. Unlike traditional surgery, SRS does not involve making an incision. Instead, it uses multiple beams of radiation to precisely target the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy brain tissue. SRS is typically delivered in a single session, although in some cases, multiple SRS treatments may be needed.

In summary, SRT is the broader category that encompasses both SBRT and SRS. SBRT focuses on treating tumors in the body, while SRS specifically targets brain tumors. Both SBRT and SRS employ precise targeting to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.