Proton Therapy

 

4588 Carothers Parkway  |  Franklin, TN 37067
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615-716-4747

Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation therapy that uses protons, or positively charged particles, to precisely target and treat cancerous tumors. This innovative treatment offers numerous benefits, including minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue and fewer side effects. At Tennessee Oncology’s Proton Therapy Center, we are committed to providing our patients with cutting-edge treatments, including proton therapy for various cancer types such as prostate, breast, head and neck, lung, and more.

What is Proton Therapy?

Proton therapy is a type of external beam radiation therapy that delivers targeted radiation to cancerous tumors with great accuracy. Unlike traditional radiation therapy, which uses X-rays, proton therapy uses protons to deliver the radiation dose. The unique properties of protons allow for precise delivery of radiation, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue and reducing the risk of side effects.

Benefits of Proton Therapy:

  • Precision: Proton therapy can accurately target tumors, minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and organs.
  • Reduced Side Effects: The targeted nature of proton therapy results in fewer side effects compared to traditional radiation therapy.
  • Treatment for Various Cancer Types: Proton therapy is suitable for a wide range of cancer types and can be particularly beneficial for tumors located near critical organs or sensitive areas.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients undergoing proton therapy often experience a better quality of life during and after treatment, as they are less likely to suffer from severe side effects.

Common Treatment Sites:

  1. Prostate Cancer:

Proton therapy is an effective treatment option for localized prostate cancer. Its precision allows for the delivery of high radiation doses to the tumor while minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissue, reducing the risk of urinary and sexual side effects.

  1. Breast Cancer:

Proton therapy can be used to treat both early-stage and advanced breast cancer. It is especially beneficial for patients with left-sided breast cancer, as it minimizes radiation exposure to the heart and lungs, reducing the risk of long-term complications.

  1. Head and Neck Cancer:

For head and neck cancers, proton therapy’s precision is crucial for minimizing damage to critical structures such as the brain, spinal cord, and salivary glands. This can help reduce the risk of side effects like dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, and hearing loss.

  1. Lung Cancer:

Proton therapy is an effective treatment option for early-stage and advanced lung cancer. Its ability to precisely target tumors while sparing surrounding healthy lung tissue can help minimize the risk of side effects such as shortness of breath and lung inflammation.

At Tennessee Oncology’s Proton Center, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced cancer treatments, including proton therapy, to our patients. Our team of experts is committed to delivering personalized, compassionate care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for those we serve. If you or a loved one is considering proton therapy as a treatment option, please contact us at 615-716-4747.