Rush Oak Park Hospital continues to be on the forefront of acquiring state-of-the-art medical technology to best diagnose illnesses and treat its patients.
Most recently, the community hospital’s Radiation Therapy Center acquired a CT simulator, a high-speed, high-capacity system that aids physicians in identifying healthy and cancerous tissues. The technology creates a visual representation of the patient anatomy, which can be used to design a precise treatment plan as part of patients’ radiotherapy treatment.
“Not only is the advanced technology itself exceptional, the other biggest benefit is the convenience we can now provide for our patients at Rush Oak Park Hospital,” said Miranda Thoma, RTT, assistant chief therapist in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Rush. “Prior to this acquisition, we had limitations as to when we could schedule appointments with our patients at the hospital. Many scans had to be scheduled at Rush University Medical Center, which have been inconvenient for local patients to drive the extra distance.
“We now have the flexibility to offer simulations all day at Rush Oak Park Hospital and the patient can pick a time that is convenient for them.”
A CT simulator transmits X-rays through tissue to create a graphic display of a tumor and surrounding normal tissue. The radiation oncologist and medical physicist tailor a radiation plan to account for movement of the target and normal tissues during treatment.
“Having the ability to conduct these advanced scans at Rush Oak Park Hospital is another example of how Rush strives to provide convenient, compassionate and expert care for its patients,” said Dian Wang, MD, PhD, medical director of the Rush Radiation Therapy Center at Rush Oak Park Hospital. “When it comes to cancer treatment, Rush Oak Park Hospital is equivalent to that of a premier teaching and research hospital—but in a location close to home.”
The Rush Radiation Therapy Center at Rush Oak Park Hospital is located on the lower level of the hospital at 520 S. Maple Ave. in Oak Park. Free valet parking is available.
To schedule an appointment at the Rush Radiation Therapy Center at Rush Oak Park Hospital, call (708) 660-INFO (4636). Learn more about cancer treatment at Rush Oak Park Hospital.
