ProCure Proton Therapy Centres, USA

Latest medical technologies

Advanced treatment centres

Private medical centres

ProCure Proton Therapy Centers

Oklahoma and Chicago, USA

ProCure Treatment Centers Inc. is dedicated to bringing the benefits of proton therapy to as many patients as possible, initially within the USA but before long to other countries too. In the meantime international patients are welcomed to their two active centres in Oklahoma City and suburban Chicago, with New Jersey scheduled to open in spring 2012.
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Specialist treatments < Proton therapy < Proton therapy centres < ProCure

Read more about proton therapy and how this differs from conventional X-ray based radiotherapy.

Caring for cancer patients

Every cancer patient is different. Whilst for some patients proton therapy is the only treatment that they need, others require more assistance.

For this reason ProCure proton therapy centres are built adjacent to and in partnership with established cancer hospitals. These can provide wide-ranging support services in a seamless fashion, to ensure that all medical services are provided.

Non-medical services are not forgotten. Treatment itself is painless and there are far fewer immediate side-effects than with conventional radiotherapy, but proton therapy patients can expect to spend several weeks at their selected centre.

Support for international patients

ProCure will guide you through the enquiry process and will help you to obtain the information you need from your doctor to have your case assessed for treatment. If your case is accepted you may need a visa to visit the USA for treatment and ProCure can assist with the necessary formalities.

Patients arrange their own flights to the USA and then ProCure can assist with transportation and accommodation. Many patients prefer to stay in self-catering accommodation and this can also be arranged.

Proton therapy for cancers of prostate, brain, lung, spine, eye, anal etc.

Minimal side effects from proton therapy

What range of conditions does ProCure treat?

Proton therapy is effective in treating many types of cancers. Non-cancerous tumours and arteriovenous malformations can also be treated with proton therapy.

Tumours commonly treated with protons include prostate cancer, brain cancer, paediatric cancers, lung cancer, base-of-skull tumours, tumours near the spine, melanoma of the eye, anal cancers and other gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Some additional tumours may also be treated.

How will my case be assessed?

Your specific diagnosis and other factors will help determine if you could benefit from proton therapy and you will be asked several questions regarding your medical history.

Your case will then be evaluated by a physician review board and you will be contacted to discuss the next steps. If it is determined that your diagnosis is not appropriate for protons, other treatment options will be recommended.

Proton therapy inclined beam gantry, Oklahoma, USA

Documents and information which may be asked for include: Your cancer diagnosis * Imaging or diagnostic records from your physician * Any prior cancer treatment you may have had * Pathology reports * Your current medications * Family medical history * Allergies * Insurance information * Availability for treatment * A referral for radiation therapy.

What does a treatment session involve?

Robotic treatment couch for proton therapy

Depending on the location of your tumour, you may be asked to change into a gown, robe, and slippers. Your radiation therapists will have everything ready for you before the treatment begins. You will lie on a treatment bed and your therapists will make adjustments to your position.

You will be automatically moved into position before each treatment using a robotic positioning system. You will be asked to lie still during the set-up process and while the proton beam is on, but there is no discomfort or sensation during the actual radiation treatments. You can bring your own CD to listen to during treatment.

Each treatment session can range from 15 to 60 minutes, after which you can return immediately to your normal daily activities. There is no need to stay overnight in a hospital or remain at the centre after your treatment.

Side effects

Side effects from proton therapy are generally minor and occur after a number of treatments. Depending on the site of your tumour, side effects may include skin irritation in the direct path of the proton radiation, tiredness and hair loss around the area being treated.

Before treatment begins, your doctor will discuss possible side effects with you. Your Care Team nurse is available to help manage any side effects you may have.

ProCure Centres

Read more about the individual ProCure proton therapy centres:

Oklahoma

Chicago

How to arrange treatment

Can children be treated with proton therapy?

Yes, even quite young children can be treated. Children are affected by radiation more than adults so proton therapy is especially advantageous for them.

Radiation is confined much more accurately to the target area, protecting sensitive organs and reducing danger of radiation-induced cancers later in life.