Radiation Oncology

The UTHealth Houston Neurosciences Radiation Oncology program is dedicated to providing our patients with the highest-quality, compassionate, and individualized clinical care while also advancing transformative and innovative research programs. Our highly skilled physicians and staff combine cutting-edge technology, expertise, and personalized treatment plans to deliver the most effective radiation therapies available.

We understand that every patient is unique, which is why we tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs. Our department is at the forefront of evidence-based clinical care, employing the latest in imaging technology, precision treatments, and innovative techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. With a patient-centered approach, we prioritize patient comfort, convenience, safety, and accessibility throughout the entire treatment process, from diagnosis to post-treatment care. With an unrelenting focus on quality, integrity, and compassion, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your cancer journey whether you are here for a consultation or an ongoing treatment plan.

Our fellowship-trained and board-certified radiation oncology specialists use sophisticated technologies and machinery to target and shrink tumors and cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used as a primary treatment method for malignant and benign brain tumors, and – in the case of cancer – sometimes in conjunction with chemotherapy and surgical treatments.

Radiation Oncology Experience

Neurosurgeons and radiation therapists affiliated with UTHealth Houston have performed more than 5,000 Gamma Knife procedures, working closely with referring physicians throughout the radiosurgical treatment process. A neurosurgeon and a radiation oncologist assess each candidate to determine whether radiosurgical treatment is the best option. In the event that it is, nurse navigators work directly with patients on scheduling and pretreatment education, and provide support and care on the day of treatment. The Center also sponsors a brain tumor support group that meets the second Wednesday of every month.

Our Services

We offer a wide range of radiation therapy services designed to treat a wide variety of cancers. Below is an overview of the therapies and techniques available to our patients:

External Beam Radiation Therapy

External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is a non-invasive treatment used to treat cancers. It directs high-energy x-rays to the tumor from outside the body, ensuring that the cancer cells receive the full dose of radiation while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Types of External Beam Radiation:
- 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT)
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
- Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

SBRT is a highly precise form of radiation therapy used to treat tumors in the body with high doses of radiation in fewer treatment sessions. It is particularly effective for tumors in the lungs, liver, or spine and for treatment of arrhythmias of the heart.

Benefits:
- High accuracy in delivering radiation
- Short treatment times (usually 1-5 sessions)
- Effective for small, localized tumors

Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation Therapy)

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or very close to the tumor. This allows for a higher, more localized dose of radiation while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Types of Brachytherapy:
- Prostate Cancer: High-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy alone or as a boost following EBRT for intermediate-risk prostate cancer
- Gynecologic Cancers: High-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy alone or as a boost following EBRT for cervical cancer and endometrial cancer

Gamma Knife Radiation Therapy for Brain Lesions

We specialize in using advanced radiation techniques such as Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery to treat benign and malignant lesions of the brain. Gamma Knife radiosurgery allows precise radiation delivery to lesions in the brain with minimal impact on surrounding healthy brain tissue.

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Clinical Trials & Research

Our division is actively involved in clinical research to develop new and more effective radiation therapies. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that explore innovative treatment options and help shape the future of cancer care.

Types of Research:
- Investigating new radiation delivery techniques
- Testing the combination of radiation with immunotherapies or targeted therapies
- Exploring treatments for rare or hard-to-treat cancers

Our History

Our program began in 1996 as one the first Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery programs in the country, and the first such program in Houston. Building on this early adoption of innovative treatment technologies, we then created a division within the newly formed Cancer Center in 2012 to provide providing innovative, compassionate, and high-quality care to patients facing cancer. Since its inception, our division has grown into one of the leading radiation oncology centers in the region, known for its commitment to patient care, advanced treatments, and cutting-edge research.

Over the years, we have treated thousands of patients, many of whom have gone on to live healthy, productive lives following their treatments. Through our partnerships with other departments within the medical school and participation in clinical trials, we remain at the forefront of cancer treatment, striving to bring the best possible care to our patients.

Our Mission

Our mission is simple but powerful:

To provide the highest standard of care to individuals with cancer by delivering precise, effective, and compassionate radiation treatments that enhance their quality of life and offer the best possible outcomes.

We are committed to:

Innovating: Utilizing the latest technologies and therapies to treat a wide variety of cancers.
Empowering: Supporting patients with personalized care and a clear understanding of their treatment options.
Caring: Treating patients with dignity, respect, and compassion, while creating a healing environment focused on their well-being.

Our mission is grounded in the belief that cancer treatment should not only focus on curing the disease but also on supporting patients through their journey—emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Our Team

The success of our department is a direct result of the dedication, expertise, and collaboration of our diverse and highly skilled team of healthcare professionals. We work together with one shared goal: to deliver the best possible treatment and support to our patients.

Radiation Oncologists

Our team of board-certified radiation oncologists are specialists in using radiation to treat cancer. With years of training and experience, they work with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan based on the latest research and clinical guidelines. They collaborate with other specialists, such as surgeons and medical oncologists, to ensure coordinated care that is tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Medical Physicists

Our medical physicists ensure that radiation treatments are delivered safely and accurately. They work closely with radiation oncologists and dosimetrists to plan and oversee treatments, making sure that the correct dose of radiation is administered to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Their expertise in physics, technology, and imaging ensures that every treatment is precise.

Dosimetrists

Dosimetrists work hand-in-hand with radiation oncologists to design and calculate the most effective and safest radiation doses for patients. They use advanced imaging and software to create a customized treatment plan based on the tumor’s size, shape, and location, ensuring maximum tumor control with minimal side effects.

Nurses

Our dedicated nursing team is with patients throughout their treatment journey, providing vital support, education, and care. Radiation oncology nurses help patients understand their treatment plan, manage side effects, and offer emotional and psychological support. They are compassionate advocates for our patients, always ensuring their comfort and well-being.

Support Staff

Our support staff, including social workers, nutritionists, and patient navigators, help patients manage the non-medical aspects of their care. Social workers offer counseling and assistance with practical matters, such as insurance and transportation. Nutritionists provide guidance on maintaining a healthy diet during treatment, and patient navigators assist in guiding patients through the treatment process, ensuring that they have all the resources they need.

Clinical Research Team

We are proud to have an active clinical research team that works alongside our medical professionals to explore new treatment approaches and technologies. Our research team plays a key role in ensuring that our patients have access to the latest advancements in cancer treatment through clinical trials, helping to pave the way for future therapies.

Our Values

Excellence: We strive to be the best in every aspect of cancer care, from the latest technology to the quality of patient interactions.
Compassion: We treat each patient with empathy, respect, and a commitment to improving their well-being.
Integrity: We maintain the highest ethical standards, providing transparent and honest communication with our patients and their families.
Collaboration: We believe in teamwork. By collaborating with specialists across disciplines, we provide holistic care that meets the full needs of each patient.

Together, as a multidisciplinary team, we are dedicated to providing each patient with the highest level of care, support, and guidance throughout their treatment.

Patient-Centered Care

At the Division of Radiation Oncology, we are committed to providing compassionate care at every stage of your journey. From the moment you walk through our doors, our team of radiation oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists, radiation technologists, and nurses works together to ensure that your treatment is as effective, comfortable, and safe as possible.

We take the time to explain your diagnosis, treatment options, and potential outcomes. Our supportive services include access to social workers, nutritionists, and psychological support to help you navigate your treatment with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Choose Us?

Expert Team: Our radiation oncologists are board-certified specialists with years of experience in cancer treatment.
Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques to ensure the highest quality care.
Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to recovery, we provide a full spectrum of services to address your physical, emotional, and practical needs.
Compassionate Environment: We treat every patient with respect, dignity, and care, creating a supportive environment for healing.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one is considering radiation therapy, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team. During your visit, we will discuss your diagnosis, review your medical history, and create a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Special Programs

Spine Radiosurgery

Spine radiosurgery is a highly specialized and non-invasive treatment that uses precise, focused beams of radiation to treat tumors and other conditions affecting the spine. This advanced technique allows for the treatment of tumors in the spine or spinal cord with extreme accuracy, minimizing radiation exposure to healthy surrounding tissues and organs.

What is Spine Radiosurgery?

Spine radiosurgery involves delivering high doses of radiation in a single or a few treatment sessions. The treatment is often used for tumors located in the spine, including metastases (cancer spread), benign spinal tumors, and certain vascular conditions. Because the spine is a critical structure that houses the spinal cord, it requires precise treatment to prevent damage to surrounding nerve tissue.

Benefits of Spine Radiosurgery

Non-Invasive: No incision or surgical procedure is required. The treatment is typically done on an outpatient basis.
Minimal Side Effects: Patients often experience minimal discomfort during or after treatment, and recovery time is significantly shorter compared to traditional surgery.
Highly Accurate: Using advanced imaging techniques, spine radiosurgery targets the tumor precisely, ensuring that the tumor receives the full radiation dose while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
Effective for Inoperable Tumors: For patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery due to the location of the tumor, overall health, or other factors, spine radiosurgery provides an effective alternative.

How It Works

Spine radiosurgery is typically performed using techniques like Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) or Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS). These methods use detailed imaging (CT, MRI, or PET scans) to create a 3D map of the tumor’s location, size, and shape. High-dose radiation is then delivered in precisely calculated beams, directly targeting the tumor while sparing surrounding tissues.

Conditions Treated

Metastatic tumors (cancer that has spread to the spine)
Benign spinal tumors
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
Spinal vascular conditions

Our Approach

At McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, our radiation oncology team specializes in spine radiosurgery, using the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. We take a multidisciplinary approach, working with surgeons, radiation oncologists, rehabilitation specialists, physical and occupational therapists, and other specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific condition.

Why Choose Us for Spine Radiosurgery?

Expert Team: Since precision and expertise are paramount, our program comprises a team of specialists includes highly experienced surgeons (neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons), radiation oncologists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, medical oncologists, pain specialists, and nurses who specialize in treating both common and complex spinal conditions, including tumors, metastases, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We utilize the latest CT, MRI and PET imaging and stereotactic radiosurgery technology to ensure the highest accuracy in delivering radiation to deliver high doses of radiation with precision to the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient’s spine condition is unique, and we believe in providing personalized care that’s tailored to each individual’s specific needs. Our team works closely with you to understand your condition, medical history, and treatment goals, and we develop a customized treatment plan that maximizes effectiveness while minimizing risks and side effects.
Continuous Support: From your initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care, we provide clear, consistent communication, and ongoing monitoring and support throughout your journey. Our team includes social workers, counselors, and support staff who are here to assist you with the emotional aspects of your treatment.
Excellent Patient Outcomes: We have a proven track record of success with spine radiosurgery, helping patients achieve relief from pain, improved mobility, tumor growth control, and in many cases, improved quality of life. Many of our patients are able to avoid invasive surgeries and lengthy recoveries while achieving effective results.

Cardiac Radioablation

Cardiac radioablation is an advanced, cutting-edge treatment option that uses targeted radiation to treat certain heart conditions, most notably cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms). While traditionally, arrhythmias have been managed through medications or invasive procedures like catheter ablation, cardiac radioablation provides a non-invasive, highly precise alternative for patients who have not responded well to other treatments.

What is Cardiac Radioablation?

Cardiac radioablation involves the use of highly focused beams of radiation to target the abnormal tissue causing arrhythmias in the heart. It is most commonly used for treating ventricular tachycardia but can also be effective for other types of arrhythmias. The goal is to use radiation to modify or destroy the tissue that is causing the electrical disturbance in the heart, restoring a normal rhythm without the need for surgery or long-term medication. This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients with persistent or drug-resistant ventricular tachycardia who are not candidates for catheter-based ablation and experience frequent painful and agonizing shocks from their defibrillators.

Benefits of Cardiac Radioablation

Non-Invasive: Unlike traditional surgical approaches, cardiac radioablation does not require incisions, which reduces recovery time and associated risks.
No hospitalization: All treatment is planned and delivered as an outpatient in most patients, obviating the need for unnecessary hospitalizations.
Precise and Focused: Advanced imaging techniques are used to precisely target the abnormal tissue within the heart, reducing the risk of damage to healthy heart muscle and surrounding tissues.
Rapid Results: In our experience the vast majority of patients note a dramatic reduction in the number of delivered shocks within a few days of receiving radiation treatment.
Reduced Recovery Time: Because the procedure does not involve surgery, patients typically experience less pain and quicker recovery times.

How It Works

Cardiac radioablation is performed under the guidance of advanced imaging, such as CT scans or MRI, which allow us to identify and target the abnormal tissue within the heart. Where possible, the information gleaned from catheter-based or other electroanatomic and physiological studies is incorporated into the treatment planning process to target the scar or focus of arrhythmia accurately and precisely. This exercise is a close collaboration between the radiation oncology and cardiac electrophysiology teams. After mapping the offending region of the heart accurately, precise radiation beams are aimed solely at this region while minimizing dose to the rest of the heart or other vital structures. This procedure is typically done in a single session, and the patient is monitored closely during the process. We have also treated patients with left ventricular assist devices, metal pumps placed within the chest to assist exhausted heart muscles pump blood to the rest of the body. The presence of such large metallic objects in the chest complicates treatment plans but with sophisticated techniques to minimize and account for artefacts caused by these devices, we have successfully treated these terminally-ill patients.

Conditions Treated

Ventricular Fibrillation: Particularly cases that are persistent or resistant to other treatments (medical therapy or catheter-based ablations).
Other Cardiac Arrhythmias: Certain forms of arrhythmia where traditional treatments may not be effective or feasible.
Recurrent arrhythmias after prior catheter ablation or other treatments.

Our Approach

At McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, our radiation oncology team collaborates closely with cardiologists and electrophysiologists to plan and treat patients with cardiac radioablation and provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients undergoing cardiac radioablation. We utilize the latest in imaging technology and radiation techniques to offer patients the best possible outcome. The goal is to help patients achieve a normal heart rhythm and improve their quality of life while minimizing the risks associated with more invasive procedures.

Why Choose Us for Cardiac Radioablation?

Expert Team: Our department includes specialists in radiation oncology, cardiology, and electrophysiology who work together to ensure that patients receive comprehensive, well-coordinated care.
State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest advancements in imaging and radiation therapy to deliver highly targeted and effective treatments for heart arrhythmias.
Personalized Care: Every patient’s case is unique, and we develop individualized treatment plans based on the latest research, clinical guidelines, and the patient’s specific needs.
Commitment to Innovation: We are dedicated to exploring and offering cutting-edge treatments like cardiac radioablation, ensuring that our patients have access to the most effective, minimally invasive therapies available.
Continuous Support: From your initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care, we provide clear, consistent communication, and ongoing monitoring and support throughout your journey. Our team includes pacemaker and defibrillator engineers, social workers, counselors, and support staff who are here to assist you with the emotional aspects of your treatment.
Excellent Patient Outcomes: We have a proven track record of success with cardiac radioablation, helping patients achieve relief from arrhythmias, unwanted shocks, sudden cardiac death, worsening cardiac failure, and in many cases, improved cardiac output and improved quality of life. Many of our patients are able to avoid invasive catheter-based ablations and lengthy hospitalizations while achieving effective results.

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

The Gamma Knife Radiosurgery program at McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston is the oldest Gamma Knife program in Houston, dating back to 1986. We have continuously and consistently offered advanced, non-invasive treatment options for brain disorders and conditions requiring precise medical intervention throughout these years and remain among the largest and most active programs nationwide today. Our program combines state-of-the-art technology, a multidisciplinary team of specialists, and personalized care to deliver exceptional outcomes for our patients.

What is Gamma Knife radiosurgery?

Despite its name, Gamma Knife is not a traditional surgical procedure and does not require a scalpel or surgical incisions. It is a highly precise form of radiosurgery that uses focused beams of gamma radiation from a geometrically arranged array of tiny radioactive cobalt sources to treat abnormalities, tumors, and functional disorders in the brain. This non-invasive outpatient approach allows treatment to be completed in one session within a cylindrical cone that houses 192 cobalt-60 radioactive sources arranged in 8 sectors with each source directing its radioactive decay gamma rays to a single spot in the center. Precisely controlled apertures of different sizes can be opened and closed to sculpt ‘shots’ of different sizes that can then be scanned across a lesion in the brain to create a customized radiation dose envelope around the lesion with very little dose to any adjacent normal organ. This extreme precision minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue and provides effective treatment with fewer risks and quicker recovery times.

Next-generation Gamma Knife

The Elekta Esprit is the latest model of Gamma Knife that includes the conebeam CT scan and frameless treatment introduced in the earlier model, the Icon, and additional features including sub-millimeter accuracy, significantly faster automated treatment planning, and seamless integration of patient-friendly treatment workflows such as single session, fractionated, adaptive, or staged protocols. Continuing our dedication to offering cutting-edge treatment to our patients and our being at the forefront of technological advances in Gamma Knife radiosurgery, our unit is the first Esprit Gamma Knife in all of Texas. Could we put a photo of our machine in here?

Conditions We Treat

Brain tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors, primary (arising from the brain itself) and metastatic (arising elsewhere and having spread to the brain) tumors.
- Metastases from other organs that spread to the brain
- Meningiomas
- Gliomas (glioblastoma, astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma)
- Craniopharyngioma
- Hemangioblastoma
Upper cervical spine tumors: Tumors arising in the spinal cord.
Pituitary adenomas: Tumors arising in the pituitary gland
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): Abnormal tangles of blood vessels in the brain.
Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting one side of the face.
Acoustic neuromas: Benign tumors arising from the nerve connecting the ear to the brain.
Recurrent brain metastases: Radiation-resistant lesions or previously treated areas.
Other functional brain disorders: essential tremor and movement disorders.

Why Choose Gamma Knife?

Gamma Knife radiosurgery offers several key advantages over traditional treatments:

Non-invasive: No incisions or hospital stay required.
High precision: Focused radiation targets only the affected area, sparing healthy tissue.
Minimal recovery time: Patients can often return to normal activities within days.
Proven effectiveness: Used successfully worldwide for over 50 years.
Outpatient procedure: Typically performed in a single session.
Frameless fixation option: In select patients, may be able to avoid a rigid metallic frame screwed onto the skull and use a molded face mask instead.
Fractionated treatment: Where necessary, a single dose of radiation is split into smaller doses, or fractions. This allows delivery of a higher radiation dose more safely to larger tumors or those in close proximity to critical structures with fewer side-effects.

The Treatment Process

Consultation: During an initial visit, our team evaluates your condition and discusses treatment options.

Planning: Using advanced imaging technology (MRI, CT, or angiography), we create a detailed map of the treatment area.

Treatment: On the day of treatment, a metallic frame is affixed onto the skull and stabilized with screws. Then an MRI of the brain is obtained with this headframe to visualize the tumor. Once virtual mapping and computational verification of the treatment is performed on the Gamma Knife treatment planning software, the treatment is delivered to the targeted area in a pain-free procedure lasting as little as 15 minutes to as long as a few hours. When complete, the headframe is removed and the patient is discharged home.

Follow-up: Regular check-ups ensure your progress and recovery.

Meet Our Team

Our Gamma Knife program is led by an experienced, multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, physicists, and specialized nurses. Their collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective and compassionate care possible.

Cervical Cancer Brachytherapy

Cervical cancer brachytherapy is a highly effective and specialized treatment used in the management of locally advanced cervical cancer. The primary goal of brachytherapy is to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This targeted approach is especially beneficial for patients with tumors confined to the cervix and lower vagina, often following external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Our cervical cancer brachytherapy program is multidisciplinary, involving gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, and nurses. The program is structured to provide individualized treatment tailored to each patient’s specific anatomy, cancer stage, and overall health.

What is Cervical Cancer Brachytherapy?

Cervical brachytherapy typically uses one of two main techniques:

Intracavitary Brachytherapy: This technique involves the placement of a radioactive source inside the cervix and uterine cavity, commonly using a tandem and ring applicator. It is the most common approach for early-stage and some locally advanced cancers.

Interstitial Brachytherapy: For tumors that are irregular in shape or extend into nearby tissues, interstitial brachytherapy may be used, where radioactive sources are inserted directly into the tumor via needles or catheters.

During the procedure, the patient is carefully positioned, and the applicators are placed under sedation or anesthesia. Imaging guidance is used to ensure precise placement.

Benefits of Cervical Cancer Brachytherapy

Precise and Focused: Advanced imaging techniques are used to precisely target the tumor, reducing the risk of damage to healthy surrounding tissues (rectum, colon, vagina, and urinary bladder). Medical physicists and dosimetrists use advanced software to calculate the optimal radiation dose distribution, ensuring that the tumor receives the maximum therapeutic dose while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Enhanced Local Control: Brachytherapy has been shown to improve local tumor control rates, particularly in combination with EBRT.
Shorter Treatment Times: Compared to conventional external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy typically requires fewer treatment sessions, reducing the overall duration of treatment.
Rapid Results: In our experience the vast majority of patients note a significant reduction in the size of the tumor within a few weeks of receiving radiation treatment.

How It Works

Cervical cancer brachytherapy is performed under the guidance of advanced imaging, such as MRI scans, which allow us to identify and target the tumor accurately and precisely. Where possible, the information gleaned from initial presentation (clinical assessment and imaging characteristics) and from completion of external beam radiation therapy (clinical assessment and imaging characteristics) is incorporated into the treatment planning process to define the target volumes for brachytherapy. This exercise is a close collaboration between the radiation oncology and gynecologic oncology teams. After mapping the area to be treated with brachytherapy accurately, a decision to proceed with intracavitary or interstitial brachytherapy is decided in the operating room upon examination under anesthesia. Accordingly, the team places applicators in the uterus and cervix, packs these in place in the pelvis, assures accurate placement with intraoperative imaging, and then the patient is admitted to the hospital. Subsequently, careful high-definition MRI imaging of the implant region guides the placement of radioactive sources within the applicators on the morning and evening of two consecutive days in the hospital. The patient is monitored closely during the process.

Our Approach

At McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, our radiation oncology team collaborates closely with gynecologic oncologists to plan and treat patients with cervical cancer brachytherapy and provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients. We utilize the latest in imaging technology and radiation techniques to offer patients the best possible outcome. The goal is to help patients achieve maximal tumor response while protecting surrounding normal tissues and improving the quality of life of patients.

Why Choose Us for Cervical Cancer Brachytherapy?

Expert Team: Our department includes specialists in radiation oncology, gynecologic oncology, and radiation physics who work together to ensure that patients receive comprehensive, well-coordinated care.
State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest advancements in imaging and radiation therapy to deliver highly targeted and effective treatments for cervical cancer.
Personalized Care: Every patient’s case is unique, and we develop individualized treatment plans based on the latest research, clinical guidelines, and the patient’s specific needs. In particular, our approach utilizes real-time assessment of interstitial needle placement under laparoscopic guidance to ensure accuracy and safety. We also minimize treatment time by completing all brachytherapy sessions in a couple of days, such that overall length of treatment is just 6 weeks in most patients. This approach also minimizes anesthesia procedures to just one. Lastly, the joint decision-making in the operating room allows flexibility between choice of intracavitary and interstitial techniques.
Commitment to Innovation: We are dedicated to exploring and offering cutting-edge treatments like MRI-image-guided cervical cancer brachytherapy, ensuring that our patients have access to the most effective, minimally invasive therapies available.
Continuous Support: From your initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care, we provide clear, consistent communication, and ongoing monitoring and support throughout your journey. Our team includes nurses, social workers, counselors, and support staff who are here to assist you with the emotional aspects of your treatment.
Excellent Patient Outcomes: We have a proven track record of success with MRI-image-guided cervical cancer brachytherapy, helping patients achieve high rates of cure with few complications. Most of our patients are able to complete all planned treatments within a short timeframe without undesirable interruptions and with just one anesthesia session.

The Treatment Process

Consultation: During an initial visit, our team of radiation oncologists and gynecologic oncologists evaluates your condition and discusses treatment options. Imaging studies, such as CT, MRI, PET, or ultrasound, are performed to accurately define the tumor’s location and size. usually, patients receive external beam radiation therapy before brachytherapy.
Planning: Using advanced imaging technology (MRI, CT, or angiography), we create a detailed map of the treatment area.
Treatment: External beam radiation therapy is typically about 5 weeks long and uses intensity-modulated and image-guided delivery techniques.
Following external beam radiation therapy, jointly with the gynecologic oncology surgeons, we carefully position brachytherapy implants within the pelvis under anesthesia.
Over the course of the next two in-patient admission days, we administer high-dose rate brachytherapy, wherein the radioactive source is temporarily placed in the applicators, and treatment is delivered in four short, controlled sessions (twice daily). The radiation source is removed after each session, and the patient is monitored for any acute side effects.
Follow-up: Regular check-ups ensure your progress and recovery. Here, we assess treatment efficacy, monitor for side effects, and detect any signs of tumor recurrence. Imaging studies are used to track changes in the tumor, and potential radiation-induced side effects such as vaginal narrowing and bladder or bowel dysfunction are carefully monitored.

Meet Our Team

Our cervical cancer brachytherapy is led by an experienced, multidisciplinary team of gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, physicists, and specialized nurses. Their collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective and compassionate care possible.

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Contact Us

At UTHealth Neurosciences, we offer patients access to specialized neurological care at clinics across the greater Houston area. To ask us a question, schedule an appointment, or learn more about us, please call (713) 486-8000, or click below to send us a message. In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.

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