Cancer Treatments

Our hematologist/oncologists evaluate a wide range of treatment options including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted molecular therapy and vaccine therapy, before recommending a plan of care for the best possible outcome. Should you require infusion therapy, our Outpatient Infusion Unit offers a spacious and comfortable environment for patients with cancer or other illnesses to receive infusion medications.

Penn Radiation Oncology Doylestown Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility located in The Pavilion on the hospital's campus. It serves as Bucks County's satellite location for the most advanced radiation therapies available, including Brachytherapy, Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). Patients may also obtain special evaluations and direct referrals for proton therapy, GammaKnife® or CyberKnife® at Penn Medicine. 

Learn more about the radiation therapy treatment options at Penn Medicine.

Our surgeons have extensive and highly advanced treatment options to offer patients with cancer. Doylestown Hospital was the first hospital in Bucks County to acquire the robotic-assisted da Vinci Surgical System® to perform complex minimally invasive procedures.

Many treatments are available as same-day outpatient procedures including: minimally invasive surgery, laser surgery, cryosurgery, stereotactic surgery, radiofrequency ablation, reconstructive surgery  and lymph node dissection.

Patients and families have many decisions to make about cancer treatment. Some patients consider nontraditional methods, called complementary medicine, to incorporate into their overall plan of care. These options may include acupuncture to relieve pain, meditation for stress reduction, dietary and nutrition strategies, Reiki therapy or yoga. Visit the American Cancer Society to learn more about complementary approaches.

We now offer cold capping treatment to eligible patients using the Paxman Scalp Cooling system. Cold capping is a simple treatment that helps patients keep their hair during chemotherapy. The cold cap works by reducing the temperature of the scalp by a few degrees immediately before, during and after the administration of chemotherapy and is cleared by the FDA for use with solid tumors. Retaining hair during chemotherapy can provide a feeling of control, positivity and normalcy during treatment. Scalp cooling is relatively new in the United States but has been used for decades in Europe. It is now seen as an identifier of exceptional patient-centric cancer care.

A common side effect of surgery or radiation treatment is called lymphedema. This condition occurs when lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under the skin builds up and causes swelling, usually in the arms or legs. We offer patients with cancer a comprehensive Lymphedema Management Program to ease and control symptoms.

In conjunction with Alliance Cancer Specialists, PC, and Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology Doylestown and various other specialists, we have created a Cardio-Oncology team that consists of cardiology, breast surgery, oncology, radiation oncology, radiation, pharmacy, and nursing. Our dedicated Doylestown Health Cardio-Oncology team provides patients with access to early cardiovascular assessment, intervention, and treatment to prevent life-saving cancer treatments’ detrimental delays.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to improve the cardiovascular health of patients with cancer and cancer survivors through education, training, research development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. We strive to minimize cardiovascular and cardiometabolic toxicity during cancer treatment, along with attenuating cardiovascular risks during cancer survivorship.

Who Benefits from This Care

Our cardio-oncology team treats a continuum of patients — including those who are currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy to survivors who are years past their cancer diagnosis but have had either cardiotoxic chemotherapy; head, neck, or chest radiation.

Your physician will receive updated communication regarding oncology treatment and cardiovascular recommendations specific to the patient.

Tests and Treatment

Cardiovascular testing such as electrocardiograms (EKG), echocardiograms, echocardiogram with strain imaging, arterial brachial indexes (ABI), biomarkers and stress tests may be ordered as appropriate for each patient. Cardiac medications such as beta-blockers, ace-inhibitors, or diuretics also may be added to the medication regimen to maintain optimal cardiac function.

Services Provided

Cardio-Oncology nurse navigator, Kassie Richman RN, BSN, has specialized training in both cardiology and oncology and is committed to supporting patients and their families from diagnosis through survivorship. Kassie is available to assist with:

• Scheduling appointments with a cardiologist
• Scheduling cardiac testing including echocardiogram with strain, EKGs, ABIs, and stress testing
• Answering questions and listening to concerns
• Clarifying unfamiliar issues and providing education material

Patient Education: What Is Cardio-Oncology?

Cardio-Oncology is a new field that offers a team approach led by cardiologists (heart doctors) and oncologists (cancer doctors). The goal is to prevent or treat heart problems caused by cancer treatments. The number of cancer survivors continues to increase in the United States due to advances in cancer treatment. Cancer treatments that help patients live longer may also damage the heart.

What Is Cardiotoxicity and How Is it Treated?

Cancer drugs and treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy, can damage the heart. Even after you finish treatment, you may be at higher risk for any of these complications. Side effects may include:

• Heart failure (the heart muscle weakens)
• Arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

To treat cardiotoxicity, your doctor may:

• Change chemotherapy
• Add a heart protective medicine
• Alternate radiation exposure
• Manage any cardiac symptoms (heart failure, high blood pressure, or arrhythmia)

What Is the Goal of the Cardio-Oncology Program at Doylestown Health?

Our goal is to provide expert care for patients who have cancer and are at high risk of heart disease. We aim to match the most appropriate cancer therapy with the least risk of heart problems for the patient. We use a team approach to provide the best care and achieve the best possible outcomes. Our mission is to promote quality of life and heart health during your entire cancer journey.

To learn more, visit the American College of Cardiology Foundation.

Resources

For more information, download these helpful PDFs:

• Cancer Treatment and Your Heart
• How to Take Your Blood Pressure at Home
• Blood Pressure Log