FAQ

What Is Proton Therapy?  Proton Therapy is a type of radiation therapy that uses protons (positively charged hydrogen particles) to destroy cancer cells. Like conventional radiation (photon therapy), Proton Therapy is external-beam therapy in which advanced equipment outside the body delivers radiation beams into tumors. Conventional radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays, which deposit radiation along the path of the beam, into the tumor but also beyond it. In contrast, Proton Therapy allows radiation oncologists to fit radiation beams to the shape and depth of the tumor. With Proton Therapy, our radiation oncologists can better control where radiation is deposited. In many cases, that means we can administer a higher radiation dose while minimizing side effects and exposure to healthy tissue, for more effective cancer treatment.

What Types of Cancer Can Be Treated? Tumors near critical areas such as the brain, heart and lungs.

Proton Therapy is particularly useful for treating cancer in children because it has a lower risk of side effects. It is less likely to damage healthy tissue, which is important because children are still growing and developing. Our cancer specialists have extensive expertise in research and patient care & are constantly exploring ways to expand the use of Proton Therapy for more types of cancers.

Can Proton Therapy Be Combined With Other Cancer Treatments?  We often combine Proton Therapy with other cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy and other types of radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Proton Therapy typically allows us to administer a higher radiation dose to the tumor without damaging nearby healthy tissues. With this benefit, we can often develop more effective combinations of treatments while minimizing side effects. To create your personalized treatment plan, your radiation oncologist works closely with surgical oncologists (cancer surgeons), medical oncologists and other experts. Together, the team evaluates your individual health needs to decide whether the plan will include Proton Therapy alone or with one or more other treatments.

Who Treats Patients with Proton Therapy?  Our team brings together nationally and internationally recognized cancer experts from several fields of cancer medicine to provide you with exceptional care. Your care team evaluates you, develops a personalized treatment plan, delivers the Proton Therapy and coordinates follow-up care after your treatment is complete. Our highly trained specialists include radiation oncologists, nurses, physicists, dosimetrists and therapists.

Is Proton Therapy Approved by the US FDA?  Yes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Proton Therapy in 2001, and it's widely accepted by physicians, government agencies and many health insurers. In the US, Proton Therapy has been studied in research and clinical trials since the 1950s. Proton Therapy was first used in 1990 in a hospital setting to treat patients with cancer.

Does my Health Insurance Cover Proton Therapy?  Many U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, cover Proton Therapy. Check with your health insurance company to find out whether your plan covers this treatment for your specific cancer. Our group accepts a wide range of health insurance plans. We also have a generous charity policy for those in need.

How Long Is A Proton Therapy Treatment?  Each Proton Therapy session lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes, and you can expect to be at our facility for about one hour total for each session. Most patients receive treatment five days a week for several weeks.

What Can I Bring to A Proton Treatment?  You may bring anything that makes you feel comfortable, such as cell phones, laptops, books, magazines, notebooks, pillows and robes. Your radiation technician may ask that you leave personal items in the secured lockers in the changing space.

What Are the Side Effects of Proton Therapy?  Current research shows that Proton Therapy for cancer treatment results in fewer side effects compared to other forms of conventional radiation therapy. Many people who receive Proton Therapy return to work or other activities the same day. Proton Therapy is painless, and every person reacts differently to cancer treatment. Side effects that you may experience include: Fatigue; Skin problems at the treatment site similar to a sunburn, including redness, irritation, swelling, dryness, blistering or peeling; temporary hair loss at the treatment site. Side effects of Proton Therapy depend on the part of the body receiving treatment, the tumor size and the types of healthy tissue near the tumor. Your care team will discuss possible side effects that you may experience.

How Long Does Proton Radiation Remain in My Body?  Proton radiation has a very short energy life span. It enters your body, targets the tumor and has few (if any) side effects to healthy surrounding tissue. As soon as you complete your daily treatment session, there is no risk of secondary radiation exposure to others.

Is Proton Therapy Painful?  Most patients report no pain during Proton Therapy sessions. People who have physical limitations may feel some discomfort from remaining in one position during the session without moving.

Is It Safe To Be Around Others During Proton Treatment?  Radiation affects the targeted tissue only for a short time during the therapy session. Your body poses no risk of radiation exposure to others. Any type of close physical contact, including sex, is safe.

Can Children Receive Proton Therapy?  Yes, Proton Therapy is ideal for treating cancer in children because it provides targeted treatment while minimizing radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissues. Less damage to healthy tissue can reduce side effects, which is critical for children because they are still growing and developing. Our team of pediatric cancer specialists have years of experience working together to care for children receiving radiation treatment. Our team coordinates all aspects of children's cancer treatment and follow-up care