Overview

Radiation therapy — also called radiotherapy or radiation oncology — uses high-energy beams to destroy or shrink cancer cells. It can be used as a standalone treatment, before or after surgery, or in combination with chemotherapy. In some cases, it’s also used to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life (for example, palliative care).

At Endeavor Health, our experienced radiation oncologists work closely with the rest of your cancer team to determine if, when, and how radiation therapy fits into your treatment plan.

Radiation room

If radiation therapy is considered appropriate in your care, it is administered by an expert team comprised of the radiation oncologist, medical physicists, dosimetrists, radiation therapists, and radiation nurses. Using state-of-the-art technologies, our team is able to target tumors with pinpoint accuracy — reducing exposure to healthy tissue and supporting better outcomes.

Types of radiation therapy

External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)

The most common type of radiation. High-energy beams are delivered through the skin to target cancer with precision while minimizing damage to nearby tissue.

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)

Uses real-time imaging during treatment to track tumor movement. Especially helpful for tumors in areas that shift, such as the lungs or prostate.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)

A highly precise technique that shapes radiation to match the 3D shape of the  tumor. This modality allows complex computer planning for higher doses to the tumor while sparing healthy tissue.

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)

Delivers very high doses of radiation in fewer sessions, with extreme accuracy. Often used for tumors in the lung, liver or spine.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)

A nonsurgical treatment used for brain and spine tumors. Focuses intense radiation to a small area with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.

Brachytherapy (internal radiation)

Places a radioactive source directly inside or next to the tumor. Often used for prostate, gynecologic or breast cancers.

Y90

A minimally invasive procedure that delivers targeted radiation directly to liver tumors via the bloodstream to shrink or destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

Why choose Endeavor Health?

At Endeavor Health, we combine precision technology, expert planning and compassionate support to deliver radiation therapy that’s both effective and customized to your needs.

Your radiation oncologist collaborates with your entire cancer care team to determine the right dose, schedule and technique for your diagnosis.

We were among the first in Illinois to offer IMRT in a community setting — and we continue to invest in advanced treatment technologies like SBRT and linear accelerators.

When radiation is delivered near the heart (such as for breast or lung cancer), we offer cardio-oncology services to reduce your long-term risk of heart complications. We offer surface guided radiation and DIBH (deep inspiration breath hold) to ensure the heart is protected. We also offer prone positioning for certain breast cancer patients.

We use image guidance, motion tracking and conformal beam shaping to protect nearby organs and healthy tissue during treatment.

Doctors researching illustration

Clinical trials

We participate in research studies designed to improve radiation outcomes, reduce side effects. and combine radiation with newer therapies like immunotherapy or theranostics.

Learn more about clinical trials

Latest insights in cancer care

Woman standing outside on a hike with her hands on her chest
Article
Lung detox: Can you clean your lungs?
2-3 min
Healthy living
Cancer
Woman getting mammogram in stand up machine with doctor
Partnership with
ABC7 Logo
Article
Innovations in breast cancer treatment
Oncology
Expert care
Cancer
Your Best Health Chicago
Headshot of physician, Dr. Morta Lapkus
Partnership with
ABC7 Logo
Article
Why it’s so important to get your annual mammogram
Oncology
Expert care
Cancer
Your Best Health Chicago
Endeavor Health Cancer Institute logo
Your care journey is our mission

The Endeavor Health Cancer Institute delivers advanced radiation therapy through expert-led care teams, cutting-edge equipment and a personalized, compassionate approach.

About the institute