Frye Regional Expands Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis with Low-Dose Radiation Therapy

Frye Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint hospital, now offers Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT), a noninvasive treatment option for adults with moderate to severe osteoarthritis who continue to experience chronic joint pain and stiffness. For eligible patients, LDRT may help reduce pain, improve mobility and potentially delay the need for joint replacement surgery.

The addition of LDRT builds on Frye Regional’s continued investment in advanced radiation therapy services. Earlier this year, the hospital unveiled a new linear accelerator as part of a $4.1 million investment in cancer care. In addition to delivering highly precise radiation treatments for cancer, the advanced technology expands the hospital’s ability to offer radiation therapy for certain non-cancerous conditions, including osteoarthritis.

“Our goal is to provide patients with access to advanced treatments without having to leave the community they call home,” said Lindy White, MBA, FABC, chief executive officer of Frye Regional Medical Center. “The introduction of Low-Dose Radiation Therapy builds on our investment in radiation therapy technology and reflects our commitment to expanding the care available locally. For eligible patients living with chronic osteoarthritis pain, this treatment may provide another option for improved mobility, maintaining independence and enhancing quality of life.”

The hospital’s recently installed linear accelerator enables Frye Regional to offer radiation therapy for certain non-cancerous conditions in addition to cancer treatment, expanding access to advanced care options for patients across the region.

“Many patients living with osteoarthritis have tried medications, injections or other therapies and are still searching for relief,” said John delCharco, MD, radiation oncologist at Frye Regional Medical Center. “Low-Dose Radiation Therapy provides a noninvasive option that may help reduce pain and improve function for eligible patients. We are pleased to offer this treatment close to home so patients can access advanced care within their own community.”

Low-Dose Radiation Therapy uses carefully controlled, low doses of radiation targeted to the affected joint. Treatment is noninvasive and does not require surgery or anesthesia. Patients are evaluated individually to determine where LDRT is an appropriate treatment option based on their condition, symptoms and medical history.

Radiation therapy services at Frye Regional are delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes board-certified radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, a medical dosimetrist and medical physicist. Together, the team develops individualized treatment plans and guides patients and families through each step of their care.

For more information about radiation therapy services at Frye Regional, visit FryeMedCtr.com/cancer-care/cancer-treatments or call 828.315.3355.

###