At the Fairview Southdale Radiation Therapy Center, we know that every patient is unique, and so is their health situation.  EVERY patient’s history - all laboratory, x-ray, and biopsy reports - is carefully reviewed before any suggested recommendations are made.

With our distinctive team approach each patient is cared for by a group of highly trained and specialized healthcare professionals.  All questions are important, and our staff will carefully address any the patient or his family may have during every step of therapy.  Close patient follow-up is always maintained.  Referring physicians are continually informed of their patient’s treatment plan and progress.

Nurses

The nursing staff is involved at all stages of patient care. Prior to the first patient visit our nurses gather biopsy reports and blood test results. At the first visit they

Conduct a thorough past medical history for Dr. Olson Provide patients with complete procedural information once treatment decisions are made; Assist with scheduling additional tests and therapy.

Following the brachytherapy procedure, our nurses monitor the patient’s progress. They are always available for questions and to help manage any problems.

Physicist

Our radiation physicist plays a key role in every brachytherapy procedure. With an advanced degree in physics and specialized training in radiation therapy, the physicist starts by making a digital three-dimensional computer image of the prostate ultrasound. The position of each seed is planned - using this image - to ensure the entire gland is adequately treated.

The physicist also:

Attends the seed implantation to assist in handling the implants; Then makes another three dimensional image, this time from a CT scan, to compare the actual seed placement with the original plan; Then calculates the exact dose delivered.

Therapy Technicians


Patients receiving only brachytherapy will not encounter therapy technicians. Those who require additional external radiation, however, will have each treatment delivered by these highly trained specialists. Guided by Dr. Olson’s treatment plan, and using the latest in linear accelerator technology, the therapy technician will administer a precisely controlled dose to the exact area and from the correct angle to maximize treatment and minimize side effects.

Radiation Oncologist

Dr. Olson begins every consultation by first reviewing each patient with his urologist.  Next, he examines all relevant biopsies, lab reports, x-rays and ultrasounds gathered by the nursing staff. Several things will occur at the initial consult with Dr. Olson including:

Reviewing significant medical history; Recommending the appropriate therapy; Explaining benefits and risks of the procedure; Answering any questions.

While the seed implant procedure is being performed, Dr. Olson, working with the urologist, is assisted by the physicist. Afterward, Dr. Olson follows each patient individually to monitor results.