High Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy In 2009, the Cancer Institute (CI) began offering another type of radiation treatment called high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy. With brachytherapy, a radiation source is placed directly into or next to a tumor to kill cancer cells. Prior to administering HDR, the radiation oncologist and medical physicists work together to determine the best plan to deliver the most appropriate, safe dose of radiation to the tumor site. The procedure involves the insertion of a catheter into the tumor for several minutes under the direction of the radiation oncologist. Treatments are administered in multiple doses, either once or twice daily or once or twice weekly. HDR may be used in conjunction with surgery, chemotherapy, external beam radiation therapy or a combination of these. The HDR program at the Cancer Institute was initiated in collaboration with the gynecologic oncologists to treat cervical, uterine or vaginal cancers. HDR can also be used to treat skin, breast, lung and prostate cancers. At the Cancer Institute, cases are reviewed at one of the seven multidisciplinary tumor conferences attended by an entire team of oncology specialists, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, genetic counselors, clinical trials coordinators and others to determine the best treatment plan for each patient. HDR is just one of the many different treatment modalities considered when the team makes individualized treatment recommendations.
along with grateful patients resulted in the creation of Comedy for a Cause in 2014. The annual event was initiated to raise awareness of gynecological cancers and raise dollars to support gynecologic oncology research funds. In addition, the practice has completed and been awarded four different research grants from the Bettie and Oscar Bragg Cancer Research Endowment beginning in 2020. Physicians referring patients to University Gynecologic Oncology can be assured of easy access to quality services for their patients. Advanced practice providers, nurses and patient navigators are available to assist with the referral process and support patients and families through their journey. Women in East Tennessee diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer now have an option to receive advanced care with compassion and dignity close to home. And you can bet on any fall football Saturday, the trio will be there cheering on the Big Orange.
Cancer Institute Annual Report | 9
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