Proton Therapy for Gastrointestinal Tumors
Treat GI tract tumors with fewer side effects
Treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) tract tumors typically includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Proton therapy is a form of radiation therapy that enables our physicians to provide a highly targeted dose of radiation directly to your tumor.
This precise treatment reduces radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and organs, which are highly sensitive and can make traditional radiation treatment more challenging. As a result, proton therapy helps minimize the risk of side effects in the stomach, bowel, kidneys and other nearby organs.
Comparison image – Proton Therapy is on the left, Photon Therapy is on the right
GI cancers we treat with proton therapy
- Anal canal
- Bile duct
- Colon
- Esophagus
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Rectum
- Stomach
Proton therapy for recurrent GI tract tumors
If your cancer is recurrent, additional rounds of traditional X-ray radiation treatment often aren’t possible because of the higher risk to these vital organs and tissues. In these cases, proton therapy can provide an optimal dose while protecting surrounding areas, which can potentially result in higher remission rates. This makes radiation a viable option for recurrent GI tumors.
Understanding the Proton Therapy Treatment Process
At the Maryland Proton Treatment Center, every gastrointestinal cancer treatment plan is customized to your unique diagnosis and health needs. We aim to deliver highly targeted care while supporting your comfort and well-being.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, you will meet with our expert team, including a radiation oncologist, to review your medical history and determine if proton therapy is right for you. Our radiation oncologists are trained to deliver radiation in a variety of modalities, which means they can discuss all radiation options to ensure you are comfortable with your care plan. If proton therapy is right for you, our billing department will help find out if your insurance covers proton therapy.
CT Simulation and Treatment Planning: We use advanced imaging to map your tumor and design a precise, personalized plan. These scans help us prepare your body position to ensure accurate proton therapy treatment.
Daily Treatment: Proton therapy begins within two weeks of the simulation. These outpatient sessions are typically 30 minutes, five days a week, with most patients returning to daily activities right after. The length of treatment depends on your specific treatment plan but generally lasts three to eight weeks.
Completion: Upon completing your last treatment, you will ring the bell at the “Ring in Hope” wall, a symbol that closes the door on this chapter of life and opens the door to a healthy future.
Follow-Up and Ongoing Monitoring: Within a month of your final treatment, you will come back for a follow-up visit to track your progress. Following that, imaging and regular check-ins help us further track your progress and make any needed adjustments.
Learn more about proton therapy
Request a consultation below to learn if proton therapy might benefit you.
Our physicians will work with you and your care team to create your personalized treatment plan.
