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Radiation therapy is a treatment used to shrink or destroy solitary cancers that cannot be safely or completely removed by surgery. It is also used to treat cancers that are not affected by chemotherapy.
Cobalt-60 radiation therapy unit
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After the patient's first dose of radiation is completed, Cheryl Bohling (Veterinary Technician in anesthesia and radiation therapy) rotates the arm of the Cobalt-60 radiation therapy unit into place for the second dose. |
Animals generally need a series of treatments over 2-5 weeks, depending on the size and location of the cancer, the pet's general health, and the type of cancer they have. During treatment, animals are anesthetized and placed on a treatment table. A large mechanical arm that contains the radiation source rotates around the patient and irradiates the tumor from different directions.
A purple "x" marks the spot on a patient's body where radiation therapy will be directed, so that the same area is treated each time.
| Veterinary Technicians Cheryl Bohling and Joan Capelle prepare a patient for radiation therapy. The Cobalt-60 radiation source is located in the mechanical arm above the patient. |  |
The radiation spares the first 5 mm of tissue to prevent burning the patient's skin. (If a skin tumor is being treated, the veterinary radiation oncologist places an artificial skin layer over the tumor so that the tumor itself receives the full necessary treatment).
The UW currently has a funded clinical trial for dogs with nasal or paranasal sinus tumors evaluating a unique radiation treatment delivery system, which combines a radiation therapy machine with helical tomotherapy allowing for precise sculpturing of the treatment field. This system will deliver the same treatment dose, but more precisely than standard radiotherapy units.
Chess Adams, DVM, DACVR, DACVRO
Lisa Forrest, VMD, DACVR, DACVRO
Some commonly asked questions are answered below. We do not mean to imply that radiation therapy is the best treatment in every type of cancer. It is important that you discuss your options with your veterinarian.
Please feel free to bring up any problems, questions, or concerns with your veterinarian, technician, or member of the clinical oncology staff in order to make the decision that is best for you.
Arrangements are made via the Oncology Service, by appointment.
Go to Appointment Information.
