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Choosing facility by radiation machine?

Page last modified on: September 19, 2008
Question from Marion: Should we be aware of the different kinds of radiation machines in choosing a treatment center?
Answers —Lydia Komarnicky, M.D.: Most newer radiation oncology centers will have state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment; however, it would be important to ask what kind of treatment planning systems they have. Does the radiation oncologist use 3-dimensional treatment planning systems? Are there certified physicists involved with the planning? What kind of experience does the radiation oncologist have? Is there a certified dosimetrist?

There are many people behind the scenes who help the radiation oncologist determine the treatment plan. It's not just all about the radiation oncologist. There are many people involved. Not all centers are the same, but there are many centers with excellent radiation oncologists and good equipment.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: You definitely need to find the best team approach.
Lydia Komarnicky, M.D.: Team approach is always best. If they all work together well to formulate a plan, that's the best scenario.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: You may find the best of each of these types of doctors in different hospitals, but you can still get them all working on your team in a coordinating fashion.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2004, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Radiation Therapy Updates. Lydia T. Komarnicky, M.D. and Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about advances in radiation therapy: the newest and best techniques, combining radiation therapy with other treatments, ways to manage, reduce or eliminate side effects, and more.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

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Meet the Experts

Lydia Komarnicky, M.D.Lydia Komarnicky, M.D. is a Philadelphia-trained physician and a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the Medical College of Pennsylvania.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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