Main ContentRadiation Therapy at UMMC
Radiation is a targeted, localized treatment using high-energy waves to shrink and destroy cancer cells or tumors. At UMMC, we use the latest technology and state-of-art equipment to design therapy treatments specifically tailored to the individual patient and case. Our radiation oncologists are leaders in their field, and serve as part of interdisciplinary teams specializing in treating specific types of cancer.
Our Health Care Team reviews each case and decides on a course of treatment and timeline best suited to the patient’s disease, health needs, and availability. The therapy process usually lasts five to seven weeks, but accelerated treatments can be administered when appropriate. The care team will also devise a plan for any additional treatments to be used in conjunction with radiation.
Before starting, the radiation oncologist will carefully plan and simulate how the radiation and target beams will be administered to the cancerous area. It can be delivered from outside the body, external beam radiation, or from inside the body, brachytherapy. The therapy received and how it is received will be determined by many factors such as the size of the tumor, location, the type of cancer, and medical history. We also offer anesthesia for patients who have difficulty staying still during treatment.
Radiation therapy is performed at the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute and University Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi.