Oncology

Our imaging center offers the latest technologies for detecting various types of cancer. Our diagnostic services include:

• Biopsy — Surgical removal of a tissue or cell sample to confirm the presence of cancer
• Bone density scanning — X-rays to measure bone density
• Bronchoscopy — An endoscopic technique to assess the lungs and airways
• Colonoscopy — An examination of the large intestines and rectum
• Computerized tomography (CT) scans — Multiple X-rays combined to create a cross-sectional image
• Endoscopy — The insertion of a long, thin tube to assess an organ
• Fluoroscopy — A continuous X-ray to show, in real-time, the inside of a body structure
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans — An examination using magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of your organs
• Mammography — X-rays used to assess breast health
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scans — Uses low-dose radioactive materials to check for abnormal cell activity
• Ultrasounds — An imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body organs

We offer advanced treatment options for cancer, including:

Chemotherapy is available as an inpatient treatment option. It is a drug used to treat cancer cells. It can be administered:

• Directly into a vein (intravenously)
• Via injection into the muscles, spine or skin
• Via tablet or capsule

As a treatment option, surgery involves removing a tumor and nearby tissue. A surgical oncologist may also recommend removing all or part of an organ in certain cases. Types of surgery we perform include:

• Esophagectomy — Partial removal of the esophagus
• Gastrectomy — Removal of all or part of the stomach
• Lumpectomy — Removal of abnormal breast tissue
• Mastectomy — Partial or complete removal of one or both breasts
• Nephrectomy — Removal of one or both kidneys
• Orchiectomy — Removal of one or both testicles
• Thyroidectomy — Removal of all or part of the thyroid gland

We will typically recommend the least invasive methods that meet your treatment goals. Options for minimally invasive surgery include:

• Hysterectomy — Removal of the uterus
• Prostatectomy — Partial or complete removal of the prostate
• Thoracic surgery — Surgery related to organs in the chest, including the esophagus, heart, lungs and trachea

We offer several other types of cancer treatment, which your doctor may recommend independently or in different combinations. Some of these options include:

• Neodymium or Nd:YAG lasers — Lasers guided through an endoscope to shrink or destroy a tumor
• Radiation therapy — Using X-rays, protons or other types of energy to treat cancer
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) — Using electrical activity and heat to treat cancer
• Radioactive iodine — A drug used to treat thyroid cancer
• Tumor embolization — Cutting off the blood supply or delivering medicine directly to a tumor

Genetic testing can be used to estimate your risk of developing certain types of cancer. During the screening, we will evaluate your genes, chromosomes and proteins for changes related to certain types of cancer. Your oncologist can then use this information to recommend preventive care.

Our cancer services include palliative care and hospice care. Both are designed to help you live as comfortably as possible with a cancer diagnosis. Palliative care can begin with your first treatment. Hospice is a specialized service reserved for terminally ill patients. Both types of care incorporate physical, psychological and spiritual support.