Radiation Oncology

IMRT imageRadiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells in locations where the cancer cannot be surgically removed. The goals of radiation therapy treatment depend on the location, extent of the disease, and type of cancer being treated. Combined with surgery or alone, radiation therapy may be used with the intent to eradicate the cancer and prevent local recurrence (definitive therapy). In cases where the cancer is very advanced or invasive, or when the disease has already spread to other parts of the body, radiation therapy can still help by shrinking or stabilizing the growth of the tumor and alleviating clinical signs without extensive surgery or significant side effects (palliative therapy). Chemotherapy may also be recommended as part of a definitive or palliative treatment protocol for some types of cancer.


Purdue Radiation Oncology is the only veterinary radiation oncology facility in the Midwest that offers state-of-the-art intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), a precision technique that allows the radiation oncologist to maximize the radiation dose to the tumor while avoiding closely associated critical normal structures such as the eyes, brain, spinal cord, lungs, kidney or heart. Our sophisticated 6 MV Varian EX linear accelerator and 120-leaf multi-leaf collimator (MLC) allow us to sculpt the radiation treatment beam to the unique shape of each tumor, and minimize side effects in complex locations, such as nasal tumors and brain tumors.

Advanced imaging tools including digital radiography, CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine are used at Purdue’s VTH to aid in both diagnosis and treatment planning. Our radiation oncology team works closely with specialists in surgery and medical oncology (chemotherapy) to provide cutting-edge, comprehensive cancer care for your pet.

Computer Tornography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Visit us at the...

Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Small Animal Hospital
Radiation Oncology
625 Harrison Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907

Click here for driving directions to the Small Animal Hospital.

To make an appointment, call 765-494-1107.


