Health Essentials - Summer 2011 - Hillcrest - (Page 7)

New radiation technology at Hillcrest safely targets cancer cells while reducing side effects The ability to pinpoint the location of tumors is important because tumors can move slightly between and even during treatments. While the LINAC effectively treats a wide range of cancerous tumors, it is not appropriate for every individual case. “The treatment lasts about as long as it takes to play one song on a CD,” says Ed, who worked for Lincoln Electric for 45 years before retiring. “It’s a piece of cake. Everyone at Hillcrest—from the parking attendant all the way on up—has been terrific.” Rave Reviews “I love the machine because it’s very accurate,” says Karen Driscoll, a radiation therapist (RT) who operates the LINAC. “We do a CT scan beforehand, so if there’s any movement of the tumor we can make adjustments.” Before an RT runs the equipment, the radiation oncologist prescribes the type and amount of treatment needed. Images are taken via computed tomography (CT) scans prior to administration of the radiation. Patients typically receive radiation therapy five days a week for six or seven weeks, with each treatment taking 10 to 15 minutes. Image by Willie McAllister A New Day After 40 treatments, Ed’s prostate cancer appears to be eliminated. He has happily returned to bowling, playing pinochle and pampering his two small dogs. He also enjoys spending time with his three children and four grandchildren. And let’s not forget Anna. “I thought she was beautiful in third grade, and I still think she’s beautiful today,” Ed says. Now that’s a reason for living. Ed Horwatt says he appreciated the support he received from his radiation oncology doctor, Henry Blair, MD, and radiation therapist Karen Driscoll, who operates the hospital’s new state-ofthe-art linear accelerator. HIllcREStHoSpItAl.oRg HEAltH ESSENtIAlS 7 http://www.HILLCRESTHOSPITAL.ORG

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Health Essentials - Summer 2011 - Hillcrest

Health Essentials - Summer 2011 - Hillcrest
Contents
A message from the president of Hillcrest Hospital
The gift of twins: A local family has a special Christmas
New radiation technology takes aim at cancer

Health Essentials - Summer 2011 - Hillcrest