Cancer Treatments

Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis

When it comes to cancer, an early diagnosis is often the most important aspect of long-term survivability. Diagnosing and staging cancer involves a multidisciplinary team of professionals that includes primary care physicians, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and others.

These professionals rely on advanced diagnostic procedures—ranging from blood work and biopsies to detailed MRI and CT scans—to help identify the type and stage of cancer.

Diagnostic services include:

• • • 1.5 TESLA Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
    • 3D Digital mammography
    • ABI-vascular testing
    • Bone densitometry (DEXA)
    • Breast MRI
    • Computed Tomography (CT) scan
    • Diagnostic and interventional radiology
    • Fluoroscopy
    • LDCT - Lung Screening
    • Mammography
    • Nuclear medicine
    • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan
    • Radiology/Digital X-ray
    • Ultrasound

Effective cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach. At Highpoint Health Carpenter Cancer Center, we combine the expertise of specialists, surgeons, pathologists, radiologists and additional support services to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery or a combination of these. Your involvement in the decision-making process is essential, and we prioritize open communication throughout your care.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses large doses of radiation to eliminate cancer cells and shrink tumors. The radiation is directed to the affected area, minimizing damage to the surrounding skin and tissue.

Electrons are used to treat skin cancers and other superficial lesions, as they are absorbed by the first few centimeters of skin, leaving very little dose to pass into the body. Radiation therapy is used to both destroy cancer cells and alleviate the symptoms of cancer. There are several non-malignant conditions treated using radiation therapy.

Advantages of Radiation Therapy

Thanks to advances in radiation therapy technology, treatment is more precise than ever. Advantages of our radiation technology include:

• • • Quicker and more precise treatments allow us to target the tumor with a high level of accuracy while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
    • Imaging techniques allow the radiation oncologist to closely track tumors before and during radiation, allowing for personalized treatment plan adjustments as needed.

Radiation therapy may be given alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or immunotherapy. Because each cancer type requires a different approach, each patient’s treatment plan is customized to their unique needs and treatment goals.

Have questions regarding radiation treatment at Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas? Click here to learn the who, what, when, where, why and how of radiation therapy from our very own Dr. Friedman.

Medical Oncology

Highpoint Health Carpenter Cancer Center is affiliated with Tennessee Oncology, bringing specialized cancer care to the community. Their medical oncology and hematology team, comprised of specially trained physicians and staff, diagnoses and treats cancer using a variety of methods, including chemotherapy and other medications. 

Patients have access to the latest treatment options, including world-class clinical trials, all provided in one location, close to home at Highpoint Health Carpenter Cancer Center in Gallatin. Comprehensive patient and family support services are also available, encompassing palliative care, integrative oncology, psychosocial support, nutrition counseling, survivorship programs and genetic counseling.

Surgical Services

Sometimes, treating your cancer requires surgery. Recognized by the American College of Surgeons as Surgical Quality Partners, Dr. Jeffrey Hollis, Dr. Brandon Mewbourne and Dr. Brian Reed have years of experience in working collaboratively with other medical disciplines and the patients' full care team.

ACS Quality Programs are grounded in more than a century of experience and are an important measure of a hospital’s surgical quality. Our programs have helped improve quality of care, prevent complications, save lives, and reduce costs.

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trial opportunities are available to oncology patients that meet enrollment criteria. Highpoint Health – Sumner's medical oncology service is offered through Tennessee Oncology Group. They have a full-time clinical trials nurse dedicated to Clinical Trials. In November 2023, Tennessee Oncology started a new chapter of clinical trial excellence, the Greco-Hainsworth Centers for Research. The National Cancer Comprehensive Network stated, “The best care for any patient with cancer is in a clinical trial.” For more information, call the TN Oncology office at (615) 451-5481.