Adaptive Radiation: Cancer Care That Changes With You

If you or someone you love is facing cancer, you want treatment that’s made just for you. At ChristianaCare, we’re proud to offer adaptive radiation therapy, the first of its kind in Delaware. This new approach means your care team can adjust your treatment each day, so you get the most precise and comfortable care possible.

When you come in for your treatment, your body may change a little each day. As a radiation oncologist, I’ve seen firsthand how traditional radiation therapy, while effective for many, doesn’t always adjust for these changes, especially for cancers near organs that move, like your bladder or rectum. Adaptive radiation therapy is different. When you come in for each of your treatments, we take a new high-quality scan. This lets us adjust your treatment plan right away, based on what we see that day. This means you may get higher doses of radiation in fewer sessions, sometimes to just five days, while keeping you safe and comfortable. Your treatments are tailored to you, based on your health, diagnosis and unique needs. This personalized care can help improve accuracy and potentially reduce side effects.

At the heart of our adaptive radiation therapy program is the Varian Ethos™ system with HyperSight. This advanced machine uses artificial intelligence and fast, high-quality, detailed imaging before every session. It helps us adjust your treatment plan on the spot and in real-time, so we can target your tumor and protect healthy areas nearby. Your comfort matters to us. During each session, you’ll have custom molds and cushions to help you stay comfortable. You can even listen to music or audiobooks while you’re being treated. Your care team will explain every step and provide educational materials, so you always know what to expect. We want you to feel supported and reassured throughout your care.

Not every patient needs adaptive radiation therapy, but it’s especially helpful for cancers in the pelvis or belly, like prostate, bladder or pancreatic cancer, where nearby organs can move from day to day. Your care team will help decide if this personalized treatment is right for you, based on your unique situation and treatment goals. If you need a second round of radiation, this approach can help protect healthy tissue that’s already been treated.

• Consultation: You’ll meet with me or another radiation oncologist to talk about your options and see if adaptive radiation therapy is right for you.
• Planning: We’ll create a personalized plan just for you, using daily scans to guide each session.
• Support: Your care team will give you information, comfort and support every step of the way.

We’re here to help you find the best treatment for your needs. If you or a loved one is facing cancer, call our care team at 302-623-4800 to schedule a consultation or visit us online. You don’t have to face cancer alone. At ChristianaCare, we’re committed to giving you the most advanced and compassionate care, made just for you.