Proton therapy
Children's Memorial and the
CDH Proton Center, A ProCure Center, collaborate to offer patients with pediatric brain tumors access to proton therapy, an advanced form of cancer therapy that precisely targets radiation to tumors.
In addition, Children's Memorial's multidisciplinary Brain Tumor Board plays an integral role in the clinical review of all pediatric brain and central nervous system tumor patients undergoing treatment at the center. And Children's Memorial pediatric anesthesiologists provide services for younger children undergoing proton beam procedures.
For more information, call 773.880.3792.
Frequently asked questions
Why is proton therapy effective and beneficial for children and teens? Studies have been done using proton beam for pediatric tumors. These studies have shown excellent results in controlling tumors, reducing damage to healthy tissue and lowering the risk of the tumor returning later in life. Since children's and adolescents' bodies are still growing, children are more sensitive to damage to healthy tissue caused by radiation. They can experience more serious short-term and long-term side effects from x-ray radiation than adults.
What brain and spine or central nervous system tumors are proton therapy most appropriate for? Medulloblastoma, craniopharyngioma, gliomas, ependyomas and AT/RTs (atupical teratoid rhabdoid tumors)
Can proton therapy be used in conjunction with other forms of cancer treatment? Yes. Depending on the diagnosis, proton therapy may be used in combination with conventional radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and/or as a follow-up to surgery.
Is proton therapy covered by most insurance plans? Proton therapy is covered by most insurance providers nationwide.
Frequently asked questions and images courtesy of ProCure.