Pediatric Cancer in Staten Island, NY
Having a child diagnosed with cancer is worrying and stressful. Fortunately, parents do not need to navigate this difficult period alone. Richmond University Medical Center’s mission is to care for the whole family with compassion and respect. Located in Staten Island, New York, our pediatric oncology team is staffed by expert oncologists, nurses, technologists, pharmacists, and more. Learn more about how our team provides the latest treatments to ensure the best outcomes for patients of all ages.
Our Pediatric Oncology Services
Every year, according to estimates from World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents develop cancer. Fortunately, by those same statistics, 80% of children are fully cured. This is largely due to the major advances in cancer treatment in recent decades.
Richmond University Medical Center gives families access to the latest diagnostic and treatment innovations, giving children the best opportunity for recovery. Our award-winning care is coupled with compassion. We understand that a cancer diagnosis is difficult, which is why we strive to support patients and their parents through treatment and beyond.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Cancer
Effective cancer treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. The radiology unit at Richmond University Medical Center uses advanced diagnostic technology to pinpoint the patient’s cancer type, stage, and overall condition. This step helps us identify the best approach to treat the cancer while protecting the child’s health. Our diagnostic tools include:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technology that uses magnetic fields to produce images of the cancer site. Patients may need to ingest a special dye before imaging. This dye is tested to ensure its safety. It reacts with the magnetic fields, producing a clearer image for better evaluation.
Positron Emission Tomography
Positron emission tomography (PET) uses a radioactive tracer agent. The agent is injected into the patient, where it is absorbed only by cancerous cells. This makes cancerous cells stand out on an X-ray scan, letting physicians determine how many there are and where they have spread.
Computed Tomography
Computed tomography (CT) scans are X-rays taken at multiple angles of the patient’s body. These “slices” can be reconstructed into a complete 3D image, allowing physicians to examine tumors from different vantage points. This helps them learn more about its impact on nearby organs.
Other Diagnostic Tests
Richmond University Medical Center also uses a variety of other tests, including blood work, biopsy, and other laboratory tests. These complement imaging data to provide a more in-depth understanding of the cancer, which can inform a treatment plan.
Treatments for Pediatric Cancer
Once physicians have a complete diagnosis, they use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. We utilize the latest developments in cancer care to maximize treatment effectiveness while minimizing the toll on a child’s body. The strategies we employ include:
- Radiation therapy: This treatment targets tumor cells with low dosages of radiation, killing the cancer while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
- Chemotherapy: Many childhood cancers spread rapidly. Chemotherapy utilizes strong drugs that work throughout the body, killing cancer wherever it is found.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment empowers the patient’s body to fight cancer and is often effective when other strategies fail.
- Targeted therapy: This treatment uses drugs or antibodies to attack cells with characteristics that are only found in cancer, sparing healthy cells.
- Surgery: Some tumors can be fully removed with surgery. We use the latest image guidance technology for maximum success with fewer complications.
Parents are informed of all treatment options, with the opportunity to discuss the best path for their child’s diagnosis.
Family Care & Support Program
A cancer diagnosis affects the whole family. Parents, siblings, and other loved ones all share an emotional burden. To help relieve this burden, Richmond University Medical Center offers its Family Care & Support Program. This program connects families with a team of licensed therapists, social workers, and consultants who offer guidance through a difficult time. They also help families identify useful resources to support their loved ones better.
The Family Care & Support Program provides consistent support from initial diagnosis until remission, rehabilitation, and beyond. We ensure that families never need to navigate the challenges of pediatric cancer by themselves.
Find Expert Pediatric Cancer Care in Staten Island, NY
Cancer diagnoses are incredibly challenging, especially when they occur in children. Fortunately, at Richmond University Medical Center, parents don’t need to endure this process alone. We offer cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments to give children the best chance for recovery. We also offer family support to help loved ones cope. To learn more about our pediatric cancer services, contact us today.
