Radiation Oncology in Minnesota

Overview

Mayo Clinic's Department of Radiation Oncology in Rochester, Minn. uses the most sophisticated technology available and employs expert personnel to deliver radiation therapy. Because patients should choose a radiation oncologist based on the physician's experience with their specific condition, radiation oncologists at Mayo Clinic specialize in treating two or three types of cancer. This specialization ensures that even patients with rare cancers receive care from someone who is highly skilled at treating their specific condition. More than 15 radiation oncologists in Rochester provide care for more than 1,900 patients with malignant diseases each year.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays, electron beams, or radioactive isotopes to kill cancer cells without exceeding safe doses to normal tissues. Radiation destroys cancer cells through a process called ionization. Some cells die immediately after treatment, but most die because the radiation damages the chromosomes and DNA so that the cells can no longer divide and the tumor cannot grow. The key to successful treatment is getting the appropriate amount of radiation to the tumor while limiting radiation to surrounding normal tissues.

The radiation oncologist works with other cancer specialists in a team approach to design a customized treatment plan to best treat each patient's malignancy. Because it is one of the largest radiation treatment facilities in the United States, Mayo Clinic physicians and allied health staff have extensive experience in all areas of cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Through the use of leading edge technology, Mayo radiation oncologists provide special treatment capabilities such as intraoperative radiation therapy to patients. In addition to providing high-quality treatment, the Radiation Oncology practice is committed to research and education that advances the effectiveness of cancer treatment. Quality assurance procedures ensure that patients receive accurate, appropriate treatment.

Mayo Clinic radiation oncologists also offer state-of-the-art radiation therapy to patients through regional practices in La Crosse Wis., Eau Claire, Wis., Mankato, Minn. and Albert Lea, Minn.