The Bryn Mawr Hospital Cancer Center provides the most up-to-date advances in the fight against breast, prostate, colorectal, lung, head and neck, gynecologic and other cancers. We offer the highest qualty care, close to home and family. At Bryn Mawr, patients have acccess to a full range of both inpatient and outpatient advanced cancer treatments. Program components include the following:

Nationally Recognized Experts in Medical and Radiation Oncology
When it comes to cancer care, you want to know that you are being treated by the best. The medical experts at Bryn Mawr Hospital have been pioneers in breast, ovarian, lung, prostate and colorectal cancer. Surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and other specialists work together to identify and treat a wide range of cancers. Outpatient chemotherapy and radiation therapy services are just some of the treatment options that are prescribed individually for each patient.

Breakthrough Research Designated by the National Cancer Institute
Access to the latest clincial research is essential in offering a well-rounded, comprehensive cancer program. Main Line Health is one of only 50 institutions in the United States to be designated by the National Cancer Institute as a Community Clinical Oncology Program. This designation allows us to work cooperatively with major academic centers, such as University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, to offer patients an opportunity to participate in preventive and treatment research trials. Some examples of current trials available include STAR, the study of tamoxifen and raloxifen for the prevention of breast cancer and SELECT, the study of selenium and vitamin E for the prevention of prostate cancer. Currently more than 90 trials are available.

Early Detection, Screening and Prevention Programs
Early detection and prevention is the key to fighting cancer. Bryn Mawr Hospital routinely offers screening programs to educate the community about early detection and monitoring of cancer. Risk assessment programs are offered at Paoli Hospital to help families and individuals determine their risk for certain cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal) and make informed healthcare decisions about preventive care. These confidential programs utilize the expertise of physicians, genetic counselors and nurses. Through Main Line Health's Health-e Neighbors initiative, we also offer community education programs where our cancer experts present seminars on the latest advances in cancer care and prevention.

The Most Advanced Technology in Radiology and Radiation Therapy
The Bryn Mawr Hospital Cancer Center currently houses some of the most technologically advanced equipment available in mammography and radiation therapy. Our Radiation Oncology Suite includes Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) to treat various cancers. IMRT represents a significant advance in radiation oncology, allowing physicians to intensify the radiation dose to cancer cells while limiting damaging exposure to surrounding healthy organs and tissues.

We also offer an outpatient procedure called brachytherapy which involves the implantation of radioactive sources directly into the cancerous site. These radiation seed implants are an effective treatment for prostate, gynecologic and other cancers. For certain patients with special clinical conditions, brachytherapy can offer additional therapeutic options.

Patients at the Cancer Center of Bryn Mawr Hospital also have access to the latest computer-aided diagnostic imaging technologies including: Positron Emission Tomography (P.E.T.) Scanning, Computed Tomography (C.T.) Scanning, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (M.R.I.).

Meeting the Special Needs of Our Patients
Our unique approach to care includes a wide variety of services to make coping with and treating cancer a less stressful and uncomfortable experience:

• Pain and Symptom Management Program: Oncology-certified nurses, in coordination with the cancer treatment team, can help patients manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue and nausea.

• Lymphedema Management Program: Following surgery, some patients may experience lymphedema, or swelling of limbs due to to insufficient drainage of the lymphatic system. The Cancer Center offers an individualized program with specially-trained therapists to help patients prevent or treat painful symptoms and promote recovery. More Info!

• Psychosocial Support: The Cancer Center has a dedicated oncology social worker who addresses issues such as community resource referral, coping with illness, family and relationship concerns and financial or insurance needs. Group and individual counseling is also available.

• Free Wig Program for Cancer Patients: Free wigs are available to cancer patients who are experiencing hair loss as a result of cancer treatments to help them look and feel their best.

• HomeCare/Hospice/Bereavement Services: Specialized services are offered through Main Line Health's Home Care Network. A multidisciplinary team that specializes in oncology works with each family to develop a plan that addresses individual needs.

• The Comprehensive Breast Health Center  -- This specialized center features the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology, including digital mammography. More Info!