Radiation Oncology

A radiation oncologist is a physician that specializes in the use of ionizing radiation to provide therapeutic benefits to patients via external beam radiation, brachytherapy, intra-operative radiation and radiopharmaceuticals.

A radiation oncologist uses ionizing radiation and other modalities to treat malignant and benign diseases. Radiation oncologists also may use computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and positron emission tomography (PET) as additional interventions to aid in treatment planning and delivery.

Radiation oncology is distinct from other radiology specialties such as diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology as radiation oncology is a clinical oncology specialty.