Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncologists in our integrated practice unit work exclusively with pancreatic cancer patients. We also provide the most advanced treatment options currently available. We are one of the only places in the U.S. offering PRRT (peptide receptor radionuclide therapy) for pancreatic NETs (neuroendocrine tumors).

Radiation Oncology Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer at UCLA

Radiation uses high-energy beams directed at tumors to destroy cancer cells. Doctors may prescribe radiation therapy alone, with chemotherapy and/or with pancreatic cancer surgery.

Highlights of our radiation oncology program include:

• Dedicated radiation oncology experts: Our radiation oncologists focus exclusively on treating pancreatic cancer.
• State-of-the-art treatments: We are one of the only places nationwide offering PRRT for pancreatic NETs. Combined with DOTA-TATE Gallium-68 PET scans, specialists can target and destroy tumor cells with the highest precision, minimizing damage to healthy cells. Learn more about advanced imaging and diagnosis at UCLA.
• Team approach: Our integrated practice unit brings together specialists from multiple fields of medicine in one location. You will get the best UCLA has to offer in a convenient, streamlined clinic.

Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT)

We are one of the only hospitals that offer PRRT for pancreatic NETs. PRRT is useful for treating patients with advanced pancreatic NETs or who are otherwise ineligible for surgery.

In this procedure, you will receive an injection that contains a small amount of Lutetium, a radioactive substance that destroys cancer cells. The injected substance sticks to tumor cells, delivering targeted radiation to NETs.

This promising new treatment allows radiation oncologists to target cancer cells directly, leaving healthy cells intact.