Oncology
Oncology is the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Oncologists receive extensive, specialized training to care for patients. Treatments may include a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, medication and/or surgery.
Cancer care in Summerville, South Carolina
Our team is here to provide compassionate care every step of the way.
At Summerville Medical Center, we offer high-quality cancer treatments, services and technology. It's our goal to provide the South Carolina Lowcountry with exceptional oncologic care.
High-quality breast care
Early diagnosis is essential when it comes to combating breast cancer. We offer online mammogram scheduling, so you can easily find the care you need.
Early diagnosis is essential when it comes to combating breast cancer. We offer online mammogram scheduling, so you can easily find the care you need.
Types of cancer we treat
Our oncology specialists provide treatment for a range of cancer types, including:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Fallopian tube cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Lung cancer
- Oral and throat cancers
- Ovarian cancer
- Primary peritoneal cancer
- Urologic cancers
- Uterine cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
Oncology services we provide
There's not a one-size-fits-all approach to cancer care. Our oncologists work diligently to tailor treatment plans to your individual situation and condition.
Breast cancer care
Our hospital provides high-quality imaging and diagnostic services, so you or your loved one can find the proper treatment as quickly as possible. We use ultrasounds and mammograms to evaluate your breast health and recommend how to move forward with your care.
In addition to diagnostic services, we also offer advanced breast reconstruction. This program focuses on reconstructing the natural breast tissue and is available if you've had a mastectomy or another major surgery.
Gynecologic oncology
Our oncologists offer specialized services dedicated to women's cancer care. We offer treatment for gynecologic cancers and pre-cancers, such as vulvar dysplasia, vaginal dysplasia, cervical dysplasia and uterine hyperplasia.
Like other types of cancer, early diagnosis is critical to finding proper treatment. However, many of these cancers do not show symptoms and can only be detected through a Pap smear, blood work or biopsy. We have provided more information regarding potential symptoms and treatment options for gynecologic cancers so you can make informed health decisions moving forward.
Surgical oncology
Oftentimes, surgery is used to diagnose or remove specific cancers. Due to technological advancements, we use minimally invasive, robot-assisted surgeries whenever possible. There are several benefits to robotic surgery, including more precision, minimal scarring and a faster recovery time.
Radiation therapy
Many treatment plans include radiation therapy to get rid of cancer cells or prevent them from spreading further throughout the body. We use the latest technology to provide effective care.
Some common tools we use to target cancer cells include:
- Linear accelerator — a machine that aims radiation in a specific area. It uses multiple types of external beam radiation therapy, including image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).
- Radiation implants — also called brachytherapy; these implants hold the maximum radiation dosage and are placed directly into or near a tumor. Because the radiation is encapsulated in the implant, it helps keep the side effects from spreading to nearby healthy tissue.