Proton Therapy is a form of radiation. While conventional X-ray radiation can damage healthy tissues, Proton Therapy uses precisely guided protons to attack tumors, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. These protons damage the DNA of tumor cells, ultimately killing them.
Proton Therapy uses the protons from hydrogen atoms that are left after the electrons are removed. A cyclotron is used to accelerate the protons, then send them through a beam transport system to individual treatment rooms, where they are used to treat tumors.
As each proton enters the body, there is a low dose of radiation released at the surface, followed by a sharp burst released as the proton hits its target. The proton beam can be contoured to the shape of the tumor, further decreasing radiation exposure to healthy cells and limiting side effects.
Proton Therapy offers the same tumor-killing properties as traditional radiation treatment, but with decreased side effects and complications.
The difference in the effectiveness of Proton Therapy versus radiation treatment is what takes place before and after the radiation reaches the tumor. Radiation releases much of its energy quickly after penetrating the skin, disrupting the molecules of healthy tissues and organs. Proton Therapy allows most of its energy to be released only when it reaches the tumor and, unlike radiation, which passes completely through the body, protons go no further than the tumor, sparing surrounding healthy tissues.
Proton Therapy is effective in treating many forms of cancer, but is most valuable in the treatment of head and neck, prostate, brain and spinal, lung, gastrointestinal, and pediatric cancers. Because Proton Therapy targets tumors better than traditional treatments, it is ideal for treatment of tumors that are located near a vital organ.
Yes. Proton Therapy has been effectively used to treat Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, macular degeneration, arteriovenous malformations, severe rheumatologic conditions and seizure disorders.
Radiation oncologists use advanced imaging techniques to determine the exact location of the tumor to be treated. Proton Therapy sessions may take anywhere from one day to several weeks. Because treatments are noninvasive, patients can continue with their daily activities. The actual proton beam time is about one to two minutes, but total treatment may be up to an hour, due to the time spent positioning the patient.
Depending on the patient’s age, medical history and condition, he or she may experience minor side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, or slight hair loss.
Nearly all insurance providers nationwide cover Proton Therapy, as does the U.S. Medicare program. Proton Therapy costs more than conventional radiation, but generally less than surgery.
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