During the year 2000, the Radiation Oncology division of the Decatur General Oncology Center participated in multiple new chemotherapy-radiation combination treatments. The most recent literature supports the use of both modalities of therapy given sequentially and/or concurrently, with the result of higher rates of local control and ultimate cure.
These combined treatments have the propensity to be quite toxic on the patient and, therefore, much emphasis has been given to minimizing the side effects of treatment. We were asked to be on the advisory board of the company manufacturing Amifostine, a radiation protectant, especially useful in head and neck cancer treatments. The use of this drug has significantly reduced the acute and long-term side effects of this therapy.
Continued use of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy also results in much less toxicity for the patient and vastly improves the patientŐs quality of life. This type of treatment is very dependent on excellent physics support. We are one of the few facilities in Alabama with a certified medical dosimetrist as well as a board-certified medical physicist.
During the year 2000, a new computer system was installed to link all aspects of the patient's oncology treatment. This further ensures the reproducibility and precision of the patient's treatment.
Continued medical education is very important to all members of our staff. Regular attendance at Tumor Boards and active participation in the Alabama Cancer Congress is routine for the staff. One therapist has served as President of the Alabama Society of Radiation Therapists, and Lane Mathis Price, MD, PC, was President of the Alabama Society of Radiation Oncologists. Dr. Price also was made a Fellow of the American College of Radiation Oncology in May of 2000. Only 200 people in the entire country earn this honor.
We continue to grow in scope and in technology, but none of us has lost the basic premise of the Decatur General Oncology Center—to cure often, to comfort always.
Dr. Lane Price, MD, FACRO
Decatur General Oncology
