Recurrent Cancer

Ongoing innovations and medical advancements in cancer treatment, such as proton therapy, offer hope to patients with recurrent cancer.

Recurrent Cancer

Cancer recurrence can happen if the first cancer treatment did not completely destroy all cancer cells in the primary cancer. This does not mean the cancer was treated insufficiently, but rather that some cancer cells were resistant and survived the treatment. These cells developed into detectable tumors over time. Ongoing innovations and medical advancements in cancer treatment, such as proton therapy, offer hope to patients with recurrent cancer. Proton therapy delivers high doses of radiation directly to tumors, eliminating cancer cells while minimizing exposure to non-targeted, healthy tissue.

BENEFITS OF PROTON THERAPY FOR CANCER RECURRENCE

Proton therapy involves targeted proton beams that can deliver high doses of radiation to destroy cancerous cells. Proton Therapy may be beneficial for several recurrent cancer types, including cancers of the brain, head and neck, lung, and breast, as well as gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and gynecologic cancers.

Notable benefits of proton therapy for cancer recurrence:

  • The high-energy, precisely-targeted proton beams can deliver high doses of radiation to destroy cancerous cells.
  • Because proton treatment is a highly precise form of radiation therapy, it is sometimes used as a targeted therapy for recurrent cancer tumors that have already been treated with radiation.
  • Proton treatment for recurrent cancer may reduce side effects, helping patients maintain their current quality of life during and after treatment.

PENCIL-BEAM SCANNING

Only a few centers in the country offer an advanced technology called pencil-beam scanning – and Texas Center for Proton Therapy is one of them. Pencil-beam scanning is ideal for patients with tumors in sensitive areas because it uses an ultra-fine proton beam with pencil-point precision to delicately apply the radiation to the sensitive area.

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YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION

The first step to determine if you are a proton therapy candidate is to schedule an initial consultation. Your doctor can make a referral, or you can make an appointment yourself by calling 469-513-5500.

Prior to your visit, a member of Texas Center for Proton Therapy’s care team will call to discuss what to expect and bring. You will meet with a physician, who will determine if proton therapy is the right cancer treatment for you. If you qualify for treatment, you will get all the information you need to make your proton treatment as smooth as possible.

If you are traveling from out of town, the Patient Support Services staff can help you arrange travel and lodging. Learn more what to expect for your first appointment.