Radiation oncologist Dr. Andrew Chang provides child-centered care.
Team Approach
The decision to use proton beam therapy for a particular patient involves a team approach.
Here at Rady Children’s, we have a multidisciplinary Neuro-Oncology Tumor Board, with specialists in neuro-oncology, oncology, radiation oncology, neurosurgery, pathology and radiology. Tumor board members will review the imaging, pathology, clinical condition and treatment plan of each patient presented. The goal is to choose the best treatment plan for each patient through group discussion and consensus.
Treatment Process
Patients will typically receive approximately 30 treatments during a four- to six-week period. Each treatment lasts for approximately 15 to 25 minutes, after which the patient is free to carry on with daily activities. Some patients may need anesthesia, requiring them to be at the facility for several hours while they are prepped for and then recover from sedation.
Child-Centered Care
The California Protons cancer therapy center is designed to be a place of healing for patients. With a warm atmosphere and garden, the space helps to bring peace of mind. Rady Children’s patients and their families have a dedicated entrance to the proton therapy center as well as child-friendly reception and recovery areas.
Please see our Proton Therapy Treatment Guide on what to anticipate while your child is receiving therapy.