| Treatments
Surgery Surgery is local treatment to remove a tumor or growth. Tissue around the tumor and nearby lymph nodes may also be removed at the time of surgery, to assess the extent of spread of the tumor and to remove as much abnormal tissue as possible, while trying to preserve a large portion of the healthy tissues. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy involves the administration of special drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs work by stopping the growth of cancer cells at one or more points their life cycle. Chemotherapy, in general, is considered systemic therapy, since the drugs flow through the bloodstream to the entire body. These drugs can be given by mouth (orally), or, in most cases, directly into the bloodstream through a vein (intravenously). Occasionally, chemotherapy can be directed into a particular fluid or body cavity, to localize the treatment for a specific type of cancer. Radiation Therapy This is also called radiotherapy, and utilizes high-energy beams to damage cancer cells and stop them from growing. Like surgery, radiation is a local therapy - it can only affect cancer cells in a treated area. Radiation can be delivered from a machine (external beam radiation), or from implantation of a radioactive material, placed directly into or near the tumor. Some patients receive both kinds of radiation. Your Columbus Oncology & Hematology doctor works closely with a physician specially trained in the delivery of radiation therapy for cancer (Radiation Oncologist) to ensure that you receive appropriate care. Medical oncologists (the doctors at Columbus Oncology & Hematology Associates) specialize in the treatment of many different cancers. Your COA doctor will discuss with you an ideal treatment plan tailored to you as an individual. These treatments may consist of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. Your doctor may also discuss participation in a clinical research trial, looking at new cancer therapies and supportive care for the patient with cancer. At Columbus Oncology & Hematology Associates, chemotherapy is administered by specially trained nurses, under the direct supervision of one of our physicians (who is always available in the office). Columbus Oncology & Hematology Associates is capable of accommodating a variety of chemotherapy schedules and complex treatments in a comfortable patient setting. When patients receive chemotherapy, the anti-cancer drugs may effect the bone marrow, decreasing the ability to produce normal blood cells. The white blood cells (leukocytes) produced in the bone marrow help to protect your body from infections. If the number of white blood cells are reduced, there is a greater risk of getting an infection. Your Columbus Oncology & Hematology Associates' doctor will discuss with you about the potential side effects of your treatment, and what signs to look for. Signs of Infection: Even if you are cautious, it is still possible to get an infection. The following symptoms are associated with an infection:
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