Oncology

When you come to us, you are partnered with a team of cancer treatment specialists who work together to provide you with the best possible care at the right time in your cancer journey. Your cancer care team may include any of the following specialists:

• Dermatologists
• Financial and legal counselors
• Medical, surgical and radiation oncologists
• Nurse navigators
• Oncology social workers
• Oncology-certified dietitians
• Pathologists
• Physical and occupational therapists
• Plastic and reconstructive surgeons
• Specialized surgeons

Our cancer specialists have weekly meetings, known as "Tumor Board" meetings. During these meetings, physicians across specialties share knowledge and insights to help craft the most effective treatment plan for you.

Additionally, we hold monthly breast conferences to discuss treatment plans for breast cancer patients.

Nurse navigators

Our oncology nurse navigators serve as advocates and educators for you and your family from diagnosis through recovery. Nurse navigators facilitate communication between your entire care team, help coordinate appointments and transportation and address any other barriers you may face during your cancer journey.

To get the best cancer care, you first need an accurate diagnosis. We offer the latest in diagnostic technology, including:

• 3-tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• 3D mammography
• Computerized tomography (CT) high-resolution scanning, including low-dose CT for lung cancer
• Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy for early detection of lesions within the lungs
• Hematology services for detecting and treating blood cancers
• Molecular imaging
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning and combined PET/CT scanning
• Robotic bronchoscope for lung nodule biopsies and detection of early-stage cancers
• Sentinel node biopsy
• Stereotactic, ultrasound or MRI guidance for breast imaging and biopsy
• Ultrasound

Genetic testing for cancer

Just as heredity determines the color of your eyes or the shape of your nose, family history may increase your risk for certain types of cancer. Our genetic specialists can help you and your family understand your cancer risks and how you can manage or reduce those risks.

To learn more about cancer genetic testing, please call (540) 776-4963.

Hepatic artery infusion therapy is a treatment for colorectal cancer or bile duct cancer (intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma) that has spread to the liver.

Chemotherapy is administered to the liver by way of a pump implanted in the abdominal cavity. This provides a more concentrated and targeted delivery of the drug to the liver versus traditional systemic chemotherapy.

The pump is implanted during a scheduled surgery such as removal of the primary tumor in the colon/rectum or removal of tumors from your liver. After the pump is implanted, proper testing will occur to ensure targeted perfusion to your liver.

After discharge, your surgeon works collaboratively with a medical oncologist to arrange the filling of your pump with a specific chemotherapy drug. During active treatment, you need to see your medical oncologist every two weeks to refill the pump. Once active treatment has been completed, your medical oncologist will determine a maintenance schedule. Removal of the pump will be determined by your medical team.

Whether you are coming to us for an initial diagnosis or a second opinion, we understand the complexities of benign blood disorders. However, it is important to know that benign blood disorders are noncancerous. Our hematology specialists are here to perform any necessary testing, as well as provide nutritional counseling, prescribe appropriate medications and, should you need it, perform blood transfusions. From bleeding and clotting disorders to red and white blood cell disorders, we personalize care to your individual needs to both diagnose and treat your condition so you can have peace of mind.

Depending on your condition, surgery may be a necessary option for accomplishing your treatment goals. No matter the situation, from tumor removal to reconstructive surgery, such as in cases of breast cancer, our surgical oncologists are with you every step of the way. Whether you require traditional, invasive surgery, or your treatment can be accomplished through minimally invasive means, we do what is necessary to get you better.

Nobody should have to navigate a cancer diagnosis or treatment alone. For that reason, we offer cancer support resources for both you and your family.

We encourage you, your family and your caregivers to attend a support group, meet with a social worker, receive cancer and nutritional counseling and use other support and recovery resources. These services can help speed up your recovery, decrease the length of your hospital stay and help you learn how to manage chronic conditions.

Our cancer support services include:

• Assistance with medical insurance and bill payment issues
• Cancer counseling for individuals, couples, family members and friends
• Community-based support resources, including home care and free cancer screenings
• Lymphedema (swelling and fluid retention) care
• Nutritional counseling
• Outpatient cancer education programs
• Rehabilitation services and exercise programs
• Spiritual guidance through nondenominational faith leaders
• Strategies for managing emotions, pain and fatigue
• Support groups for patients with specific types of cancer

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to leading-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology experts ensure you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7 and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (804) 591-4152 or chat online at askSARAH.