Radiation Oncology
(
PDF of Map to Cancer Center)
419.423.3703
Conveniently located on the East Side of Findlay on U.S. 224, BVRCC combines state of the art technology and a patient-friendly healing environment to treat both the physical and the emotional aspects of cancer. We encourage each patient, along with their family, to play an active role in their treatment and the decisions surrounding it. Our knowledgeable staff will take the time to ensure you understand the treatment process make every effort to accommodate your needs.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy ionizing radiation to eliminate cancer cells by delivering a dose of radiation to tumors and other potential cancerous areas. Through a series of daily treatments to highly focused areas, potentially lethal doses of radiation can be delivered to malignant cells while sparing the less sensitive healthy tissue. Radiation is used to:
- Save lives by curing certain diseases
- Prolong life by stopping the growth of tumors
- Ease suffering by reducing pressure, bleeding and relieving pain
Highly sophisticated imaging, computer planning and treatment delivery systems ensure the safety and accuracy of treatment. The actual exposure time during treatment lasts only a few minutes. While side effects can never be completely eliminated, thanks to advances in technology, treatment is safer and more effective than it was just a few years ago. In most cases, patients are able to resume normal lifestyles after treatment is complete.
BVHS has invested millions of dollars to bring cutting edge technology to our community. Recognizing that individuals needs vary, we offer two separate linear accelerators. With its proven design, our Clinac 2100/C is the most widely used accelerator in the field today. It combines high dose rates and the precise control needed to attack cancer cells. Our latest addition, the Clinac 21EX Platinum gives us the ability to further evolve treatment programs using high-precision dose sculpting technology for advanced tumor control. Together with our CT simulator and advanced ADAC computer planning system, this state of the art technology allows us to offer both 3-D conformal and Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT). These dose delivery systems direct highly precise treatment to tumor areas while limiting doses to the surrounding tissue.
In some cases, patients may experience some temporary side effects. The extent depends on two things: the type of cancer and the dosages of radiation received during treatment. You should tell your physician about any side effects, even if they are minor. It is normal to experience some fatigue during the treatment process since your body is using its extra energy to rebuild normal healthy cells.
Prognosis is much better for cancer patients today because of early diagnosis and advanced treatment methods. Routinely, patients resume their normal lifestyles after treatment is complete.
Our highly qualified staff includes board certified radiation therapists who deliver treatment, as well as radiation therapy nurses who monitor potential side effects. Our full-time dosimetrist and a physics support team assist in treatment planning and daily monitoring of our equipment. Together with our office staff, these individuals provide the knowledge and compassion that results in quality care with a human touch. Our staff works closely with other specialties within BVHS to provide comprehensive services including nutritional support, physical and lymphedema therapy, social services, and spiritual support.
Our two board certified Radiation Oncologists provide full-time care for patients. Working closely with other physicians, they develop a comprehensive treatment plan, closely monitor patients throughout the treatment process and provide ongoing follow-up care.
Dr. Jeanne Lange Ashworth
Dr. Ashworth is a board certified Radiation Oncologist with over ten years of experience in the field. A Tiffin native and graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Dr. Ashworth joined Blanchard Valley in 1999 after practicing for several years in the Chicago area. She has experience in treating a broad range of tumors with a special interest in breast and gynecological malignancies.
Dr. Stephen Lutz
Dr. Lutz is a board certified Radiation Oncologist who joined Blanchard Valley in 2002. A Detroit native, Dr. Lutz graduated from the University of Michigan School of Medicine. He practices full-time general Radiation Oncology. He is also an active participant in research, an international guest lecturer on quality of life issues in cancer care, and has had manuscripts published by CANCER, a peer-reviewed publication of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Lutz also holds a second board certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
