Frequently Asked Questions

Q.What are the differences between proton beam therapy and heavy-particle beam therapy, and what are their proper uses?

A.These highly similar treatment methods are both particle-beam therapies, with proton beam therapy using the nuclei of hydrogen atoms and heavy-ion beam therapy using the nuclei of carbon atoms. In general there is no large difference in their applications and treatment effectiveness, but proton beam therapy offers advantages that include side effects that are easier to predict, greater ease in irradiation from a wide range of angles, and allowing application of unnecessary dosage beyond the lesion to be reduced. Meanwhile, advantages of heavy-particle therapy include high cell-damaging power and the ability to reduce application of unnecessary dosage to the sides of the lesion. The Center holds daily video conferences with the Hyogo Ion Beam Medical Center, where heavy-ion therapy is available, and each facility has adopted a system to determination the preponderance of advantages for each kind of therapy and make mutual referrals.

Q.What parts of the body can be treated?

A.Almost any body part can be treated as long as distant metastasis has not occurred. Check here for the disorders that the Center treats.

Q.What is the number of treatments given?

A.As a general guide, treatments are given daily on weekdays (Monday through Friday) for 2 to 8 weeks. The number of fractions varies according to such factors as the type and location of the disease and the physical condition of the patient.
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Q.Are hospitalization facilities available?

A.For children, treatment is given during hospitalization at Prefectural Kobe Children's Hospital.

Q.The facility gives emphasis to pediatric cancers. Does this mean that only pediatric-cancer cases are seen?

A.We also treat adults. The Center has two treatment rooms - one for pediatric use and one for adults - and adults are seen as well.