Proton radiotherapy can be an excellent option for treatment by itself or in conjunction with other modalities. Because proton therapy is not widely available, it is not often thought of as a treatment choice. Please refer to our list of conditions treated to see if proton radiotherapy is an option for you.

One of the advantages of proton treatment is that the radiation goes to a certain depth and basically stops. This is ideal treating tumors near critical structures, over previously treated areas, or abutting multiple treatment areas; however, it is a limiting factor in how deep we can treat.

Typically the pelvic area is the largest area we treat. For prostate patients, if your waist size is 38” or more, we will make a determination if our proton beam can adequately treat to the needed depth. For other treatment sites in this area, the waist measurement guidelines may also be a factor in determining eligibility.

If you weigh more than 360 pounds, we are unable to treat you due to weight limit capacity on our equipment.

Treatments are delivered daily (typically Monday through Friday). Actual treatment time for a patient with prostate cancer is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. For children and adult patients with other treatment sites, this time can be anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. Patients must be able to either commute or stay in Bloomington during their prescribed treatment plan. For prostate patients, this is typically nine weeks. For all other patients, treatment duration can vary from two to eight weeks based on the treatment plan.

Your first step to determining if you are a candidate for treatment at Indiana University Health Proton Therapy Center is to have either a direct referral from your physician or make the call yourself. During your first call to us, we obtain your contact information and the diagnosis for which you are seeking treatment. One of our nurses or clinical specialists will return your call, to learn more about your case, to obtain specific medical information, and to answer any questions you may have. If appropriate, you may be asked to visit Indiana University Health Proton Therapy Center for an onsite consultation with one of our physicians.

We will work with you on an individual basis to determine if proton treatments are best for your case. Contact us toll-free at 866.487.6774 or submit a request to discuss your case with one of our medical staff members.