The source capacity is 6000 Ci. Patients are anesthetized for each radiation therapy treatment using either isoflurane or halothane administered via mask followed by orotracheal intubation. These specialists are available for consultation with radiation oncology trainees as needed. The following represents a typical schedule for a radiation oncology trainee for the two-year program. There is a detailed follow-up system in place.
Data regarding all patients receiving radiation therapy is archived in a computer database.
The database generates follow-up letters for all patients where contact has not been made within the past 6 months. The follow-up letter, which is sent to the owner of the patient is accompanied by a questionnaire regarding the status of the animal. If these questionnaires are not returned by the owner in a timely fashion, the owner is contacted by telephone. There is an ongoing and active investigational component to the oncology area at North Carolina State University. Current areas of radiation therapy-related investigation include the combination of radiation and hyperthermia, and assessment of factors such as proliferation and hypoxia which may limit the response of tumors to radiation.