Radiation Therapy & Radiosurgery
UC San Diego Health has one of the most advanced radiation oncology centers in the nation.
With our specialized expertise and suite of advanced technologies, including 12 linear accelerators and five proton vaults, we can precisely target any kind of cancer, while minimizing healthy tissue's exposure to radiation.
Types of Radiation Therapy
Receive leading-edge therapeutic radiation services in a compassionate and caring environment. Here are some therapeutic radiation approaches we offer to target your cancer.
Conformal radiation therapy (CRT)
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
Volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT)
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
Brachytherapy
Proton Therapy
Fight cancer with proton therapy
UC San Diego Health radiation oncologists offer proton therapy at California Protons Cancer Therapy Center, one of the largest and most advanced proton therapy centers in the nation.
What to Expect
Radiation therapy is a five-step process, outlined as follows.
Consultation
You'll meet with a physician and other members of the radiation oncology team to discuss your best treatment options.
Simulation
Computed tomography (CT) simulation is the most accurate way to precisely define the treatment area, and allows your physician to design a plan unique to your anatomy. The simulation determines your proper positioning on the treatment table, used throughout your course of treatment.
Treatment plan
Using information from your simulation session, dosimetrists work closely with your radiation oncologist and medical physicist to develop your best treatment plan.
Radiation therapy
Therapy usually begins one week after the simulation appointment. Radiotherapy treatments are usually five days per week for four to six weeks. Your physician will determine the total number of treatments. At each appointment, a therapist will position you on the table exactly as you were at the time of the simulation.
Follow-up care
You'll come in for follow-up visits so your doctor can monitor your progress and address any side effects you might be experiencing. These appointments are generally scheduled at three or six-month intervals.
Pediatric Radiation Therapy Services
San Diego's Only Radiation Oncology Center for Children
Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health is the only provider of pediatric radiation oncology in San Diego County. We are experts in treating common and rare pediatric cancers, and families come to our program for radiation therapy from across Southern California and Mexico.
Radiation Oncologists A team approach to your care
UC San Diego Health's radiation oncologists offer advanced therapeutic radiation services. Your care plan is crafted with the best available science and technologies.
Locations
Helpful Links
Take that Cancer, You Big Jerk: How Clinical Trials Saved Me
The community comes together to learn more about the benefits of clinical trials during an event held at Moores Center Center at UC San Diego Health.
10 Medical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Not all symptoms are harmless. Learn about 10 warning signs — like chest pain, sudden confusion and unexplained weight loss — that could signal serious or life-threatening health issues.
Cancer Care When You Need It
The same-day cancer care clinic at UC San Diego Health provides fast, expert treatment for urgent cancer-related symptoms, improving patient care and quality of life.