Radiation Therapy
Mills-Peninsula provides radiation treatment for more people than any other facility in San Mateo County. A dedicated CT scanner and 3-D imaging are used to target specific tumors, minimizing the exposure of healthy tissue. This new technology allows two new, latest-generation linear accelerators to conform the beam of radiation to the cancer site.
Brachytherapy for prostate cancer – Mills-Peninsula introduced the first brachytherapy program in a community setting in San Mateo County. This less invasive treatment alternative avoids more extensive surgery for many men. Radioactive seeds are implanted in the prostate during outpatient surgery.
High Dose Radiation (HDR) brachytherapy for early-stage breast cancer. Mills-Peninsula is the first community hospital on the Peninsula to offer this new technology. Called "Mammosite," it reduces the radiation therapy treatment regimen from a customary six - seven weeks down to five days. A radioactive pellet is delivered directly to the tissue surrounding the original breast tumor through one temporary catheter that is inserted during the lumpectomy procedure and removed following therapy.
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) – This most advanced radiation technology is much more focused and precise, allowing higher doses to be delivered with fewer side effects. The technology is being introduced now for people with prostate cancer, with plans to expand the treatment capability to women with breast cancer.