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Today, with advanced
technology and new medication, experienced physicians
can treat previously incurable cancers and prolong the lives of many patients.
North Country residents can receive this state-of-the-art treatment at Samaritan's
Walker Cancer Treatment Center.
Cancer treatment has three primary modalities: surgery, radiation oncology
and medical oncology. We have a sophisticated program with the most advanced
equipment and can offer the most recent advances in all modalities. Over 90
percent of cancer treatments available today are offered at Samaritan.
Radiation oncology is administered by a machine called a linear accelerator,
which delivers a very directed "stream" of high-energy particles
to destroy cancer cells. It is used to decrease tumor size and to cure some
locally confined cancers, such as cervical, breast or prostate cancer. With
the recent installation of a new linear accelerator, Samaritan now has the
most powerful machine in the North Country. The upgraded machine delivers a
more focused beam to the tumor, causing less damage to healthy cells in the
surrounding tissues. With the new linear accelerator, we can give the greatest
benefit with the least damage.
In addition to treating cancer with chemotherapy, medical oncologists are also
involved with overall general medical care and proper nutrition for cancer
patients, pain control, treatment of cancer-related medical problems, and overseeing
inpatient care. To offer full comprehensive treatment, including bone marrow
transplants, the Center works closely with the Regional Oncology Center at
the University Health Science Center in Syracuse and with Fletcher Allen Hospital
in Vermont.
Providing cancer patients with comprehensive quality care has always been a
goal of the Walker Cancer Treatment Center. So that today, North Country cancer
patients receive the most advanced kinds of treatment-without having to travel
far from home and family
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