Consultative medicine Consultative medicine (click to go to the specific page to find out more):
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Immuno Oncology - is a medical specialty that focuses on utilizing a patient's own immune system responses to
produce an individualized therapy against cancer has long been considered a promising approach in therapy.
Within the last few years, we have witnessed a huge shift in the treatment of cancer globally.
Immunotherapy has grown as a specialty and is considered alongside surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy as the fourth
cornerstone of anticancer treatment. Immunotherapy has been yielding clinical results for some time, and the
most recent agents entering the clinic look even more promising.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute Center for Immuno-Oncology conducts clinical trials for a variety of cancers using immunotherapy. If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, specialists from our Center will work with you and your current treatment team to discuss whether immunotherapy may be an option for you.
Immunotherapy, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting CTLA4, and the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, have taken center stage at recent international and national oncology meetings. Data from these paradigm-shifting therapies, initially beneficial in melanoma and renal (kidney) cancers, have shown remarkable initial efficacy in other solid tumors ; lung, ovarian and a host of other carcinomas.
As one of the most exciting areas of cancer research today, Immuno-oncology unleashes the power of the body's immune system to detect and combat tumors in a custom tailored fashion. Our Immuno-Oncology Center aims to maximize the advances of immunotherapy and take advantage of growing enthusiasm in the field, spurred by recent successes to bring these benefits to all of our patients with a wide range of cancers. The Center fosters collaborative research among laboratory and clinical investigators in many different departments at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute has been involved with PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies since their inception. We were amongst the first to make the drug deemed by the FDA to be a “breakthrough” therapy, Pembrolizumab (MK-3475), available for patients. This data was presented and simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine (Hamid et al.). Our very own Omid Hamid, MD presented ground breaking data with anti-PDL1 antibody MPDL328A in melanoma.
Our clinical trials program currently builds on this promise towards combinations to overcome PD1 resistance and set standards for solid tumors and lymphomas
Phase 1 Clinical Program expands at The Angeles Clinic Success developing targeted therapies in oncology depends on the ability to identify new targets and develop agents that hit those targets in an efficient manner. Major clinical advances in the care of common cancers have been made through participation of patients in Phase I clinical trials of agents that achieve this goal. Predictive oncology biomarkers - i.e., genes and genetic mutations, proteins and signalling pathways implicated in the proliferation and death of cancer cells - and their use to control tumor growth has been a major advancement allowing more efficacious therapy with decreased toxicity. Our collaboration with pharmaceutical partners has been instrumental in bringing this care to our patients.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute Center for Immuno-Oncology conducts clinical trials for a variety of cancers using immunotherapy. If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, specialists from our Center will work with you and your current treatment team to discuss whether immunotherapy may be an option for you.
- Research and Clinical Trials - Progress made through trials
- See a list of current clinical trials. Are you eligible? Find out here
Immuno-Oncology
Paradigm-shifting therapy for all solid tumors.Immunotherapy, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting CTLA4, and the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, have taken center stage at recent international and national oncology meetings. Data from these paradigm-shifting therapies, initially beneficial in melanoma and renal (kidney) cancers, have shown remarkable initial efficacy in other solid tumors ; lung, ovarian and a host of other carcinomas.
As one of the most exciting areas of cancer research today, Immuno-oncology unleashes the power of the body's immune system to detect and combat tumors in a custom tailored fashion. Our Immuno-Oncology Center aims to maximize the advances of immunotherapy and take advantage of growing enthusiasm in the field, spurred by recent successes to bring these benefits to all of our patients with a wide range of cancers. The Center fosters collaborative research among laboratory and clinical investigators in many different departments at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute has been involved with PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies since their inception. We were amongst the first to make the drug deemed by the FDA to be a “breakthrough” therapy, Pembrolizumab (MK-3475), available for patients. This data was presented and simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine (Hamid et al.). Our very own Omid Hamid, MD presented ground breaking data with anti-PDL1 antibody MPDL328A in melanoma.
Our clinical trials program currently builds on this promise towards combinations to overcome PD1 resistance and set standards for solid tumors and lymphomas
Phase 1 Clinical Program expands at The Angeles Clinic Success developing targeted therapies in oncology depends on the ability to identify new targets and develop agents that hit those targets in an efficient manner. Major clinical advances in the care of common cancers have been made through participation of patients in Phase I clinical trials of agents that achieve this goal. Predictive oncology biomarkers - i.e., genes and genetic mutations, proteins and signalling pathways implicated in the proliferation and death of cancer cells - and their use to control tumor growth has been a major advancement allowing more efficacious therapy with decreased toxicity. Our collaboration with pharmaceutical partners has been instrumental in bringing this care to our patients.
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Cardio Oncology - Description will be soon
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Endocrinology - is a specialty within medicine that focuses on the system of hormones and the treatment of
related diseases affecting the body. Some of the more commonly known endocrine system diseases are Diabetes,
Thyroid Disorders and Grave’s Disease to name a few.
Endocrine disorders may arise on their own and are sometimes related to a cancer diagnosis. Treatment for
these diseases varies depending on your own unique clinical circumstances and may include a need for
therapies such as insulin, dietary modifications, exercise, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and even surgery in some
cases.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute is home to physicians and clinical staff who not only specialize
in the field of Endocrinology but are internationally renowned in the field allowing us to offer premier
diagnosis and treatment options for our patients. Artak Labadzhyan, MD MD serves as our Chief
Endocrinologist at TACRI, he is board certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes and
Metabolism. His research is cutting edge and focused on the causes of pituitary cancers, their diagnosis and
treatment options.
At The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute we are able to offer our patients access to expert physicians
and clinical services for the most advanced cases of Endocrine disease. No matter how complex or simple your
case may be, our suite of services is available in one location giving you the opportunity to focus on your
care and healing without the worry of travelling to multiple locations.
Whether you are a current patient or seeking an appointment with a specialist here for the first time, our
staff is ready to assist. Please contact at: (310) 231-2121
or use our secure online appointment request
form to schedule an appointment at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
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Focal Therapy - Prostate Cancer in men has in the past been treated with invasive surgical procedures in addition to chemotherapy and radiation. Today, Focal Therapy is a new approach to the treatment of small localized prostate cancers offering patients a targeted treatment strategy while minimizing the impact to their bodies.
The benefits of focal therapy include the preservation of non cancerous prostate tissue, the ability to efficiently treat prostate cancers on an outpatient basis allowing patients to be home rather than the hospital. At the Angeles Clinic and Research Institute Prostate and Men’s Cancer Center Focal Therapy is available to our patients and approached in one of four methods.
The follow up course of care after focal therapy includes assessing your physical recovery following the procedure, laboratory work to trend your Prostate Surface Antigen levels (PSA blood test) and additional imaging to visualize the elimination of the tumor and quality of the remaining prostate tissue. Should the cancer return or any other problems arise our team of expert Urologists, Surgeons and Clinical staff are able to offer multiple treatment options following Focal Therapy.
Whether you are a current patient or seeking an appointment with a specialist here for the first time, our staff is ready to assist.
- NanoKnife: A new device used to send electricity through a tumor to destroy cancerous tissue under the guidance of a CT scan.
- Focal Cryoablation: Using a very small needle a solution is injected around the tumor causing it to freeze and destroy the cancerous tissue while preserving the healthy surrounding areas of the prostate.
- High-intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): This method is one of the least invasive treatment options available for prostate cancer. Soundwaves are focused and passed through the tumor under the guidance of an MRI allowing the ability to visualize the destruction of the tumor in real time. This method is becoming more attractive to patients as it has very few side effects and there is little to no discomfort involved during the procedure.
- Photodynamic Therapy: This method is currently a clinical trial that involves the injection of a drug through very small fibers that are placed within the prostate. The drug then reacts to a specially colored light causing the destruction of the cancerous tissue where it was placed.
The follow up course of care after focal therapy includes assessing your physical recovery following the procedure, laboratory work to trend your Prostate Surface Antigen levels (PSA blood test) and additional imaging to visualize the elimination of the tumor and quality of the remaining prostate tissue. Should the cancer return or any other problems arise our team of expert Urologists, Surgeons and Clinical staff are able to offer multiple treatment options following Focal Therapy.
Whether you are a current patient or seeking an appointment with a specialist here for the first time, our staff is ready to assist.
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Pain Management - The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute offers our patients a holistic individualized approach to pain management specific to your own clinical picture.
Sometimes cancer, diseases or physical conditions can compromise one’s quality of life by causing physical and emotional pain. Pain management is a treatment strategy that is not simply a prescription but rather a team in your corner offering complete support throughout your care on a 24/7 basis.
Our approach to Pain Management includes:
You and your doctor will plan for your own pain management and our team is on call 24/7 should you need anything while under our care.
Our approach to Pain Management includes:
- Assessment of Pain
- Pain Medications
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Psychosocial Support
- Radiation Therapy
- Invasive Procedures
- Evaluation of efficacy
- Tailoring of the approach throughout your care
- Palliative care and comfort measures for End of Life Care
You and your doctor will plan for your own pain management and our team is on call 24/7 should you need anything while under our care.
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Genetic Counseling - is a service provided to patients by a medical professional with advanced training in medicine, genetics, and counseling. The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, as a specialty center for Oncology, offers patients the ability to receive these services at multiple locations.
This service provides an opportunity for patients to meet with a certified genetic counselor to discuss their own clinical picture in a detailed manner with a focus on the cancer history of you and/or your family. It is no secret that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and genetic counselors can help in providing you with the opportunity to listen, guide, cope and answer any questions you may have about the future for you and your loved ones.
Program
Olivia Tan MS, CGC leads the Genetic Counseling services at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, she is certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling and licensed by the California Department of Public Health. Olivia has been practicing as an Oncology Genetic Counselor since 2013. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Master of Science degree in Human Genetics from Sarah Lawrence College.
Initial appointments generally last an hour and during this time you will review your personal and/or family history of cancer, and the genetic counselor will evaluate for the possibility of a hereditary cancer syndrome. As a part of a genetic counseling consultation, genetic testing may be done, which consists of a blood test or saliva sample to allow for a comprehensive analysis of your own genetic risk factors. Hereditary genetic testing is an important step in the therapy care plan for many individuals with a cancer diagnosis and can guide cancer screening and prevention for individuals without cancer. Whether you have a new diagnosis of cancer or are concerned about your risk factors for developing cancer, Genetic Counseling offers a compassionate setting to meaningfully discuss your health and provide an understanding of your own individual risk for disease.
Scheduling
In order to receive genetic counseling services at TACRI your Oncologist and clinical team may make a referral on your behalf or you may contact the scheduling office to make an appointment. This service is available to both current patients and new patients with or without a referral from your physician.
Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Cancer Risk
We now are pleased to announce the addition of Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Cancer Risk at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute. The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute brings patients and expert healthcare providers together in a clinical program that is recognized as the premier center for the comprehensive treatment of all states of cancer.
Evaluation for a possible hereditary cancer syndromes is an important step in the surgical and/or oncologic care plan for many individuals with a cancer diagnosis and can guide cancer screening and prevention for individuals without cancer.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute offers on-site genetic counseling by a board-certified and licensed genetic counselor who can:
Genetic testing can be performed on either a blood or saliva sample. Results are typically available within three weeks and these are discussed during an in-person follow-up visit.
Program
Olivia Tan MS, CGC leads the Genetic Counseling services at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, she is certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling and licensed by the California Department of Public Health. Olivia has been practicing as an Oncology Genetic Counselor since 2013. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Master of Science degree in Human Genetics from Sarah Lawrence College.
Initial appointments generally last an hour and during this time you will review your personal and/or family history of cancer, and the genetic counselor will evaluate for the possibility of a hereditary cancer syndrome. As a part of a genetic counseling consultation, genetic testing may be done, which consists of a blood test or saliva sample to allow for a comprehensive analysis of your own genetic risk factors. Hereditary genetic testing is an important step in the therapy care plan for many individuals with a cancer diagnosis and can guide cancer screening and prevention for individuals without cancer. Whether you have a new diagnosis of cancer or are concerned about your risk factors for developing cancer, Genetic Counseling offers a compassionate setting to meaningfully discuss your health and provide an understanding of your own individual risk for disease.
Scheduling
In order to receive genetic counseling services at TACRI your Oncologist and clinical team may make a referral on your behalf or you may contact the scheduling office to make an appointment. This service is available to both current patients and new patients with or without a referral from your physician.
Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Cancer Risk
We now are pleased to announce the addition of Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Cancer Risk at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute. The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute brings patients and expert healthcare providers together in a clinical program that is recognized as the premier center for the comprehensive treatment of all states of cancer.
Evaluation for a possible hereditary cancer syndromes is an important step in the surgical and/or oncologic care plan for many individuals with a cancer diagnosis and can guide cancer screening and prevention for individuals without cancer.
The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute offers on-site genetic counseling by a board-certified and licensed genetic counselor who can:
- Review a patient’s personal and/or family history of cancer
- Perform risk assessment for hereditary cancer syndromes
- Determine the most appropriate genetic test(s) and the most informative approach to genetic testing for patients and/or their families
- Coordinate genetic testing and insurance authorizations
- Interpret genetic test results, review syndrome inheritance, and identify relatives who may benefit from genetic testing
- Help patients and their physicians understand and apply genetic test results to medical management decisions based upon associated cancer risks
- Offer patients and their relatives counseling and emotional support
Genetic testing can be performed on either a blood or saliva sample. Results are typically available within three weeks and these are discussed during an in-person follow-up visit.
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Hernia and Sports Hernias - The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute offers services for the treatment and correction of Hernias and Sports Hernias. Occasionally a hernia or outpouching of internal tissue can be the result of either day to day living or arise from a sports injury.
Hernias are very common, sometimes there are symptoms associated such as pain at the site, changes in bowel habits or heartburn. While they can be benign in nature the best course of action is early medical evaluation to determine severity and whether or not surgical intervention is required. William Hutchinson MD, is nationally recognized as a premier hernia repair surgeon. Throughout his career he has conducted surgery on over 7,500 patients including athletes across the country from a variety of sports such as football, basketball, hockey and soccer. He also teaches laparoscopic hernia repair in addition to contributing to the American Journal of Sports Medicine.
Whether you are a current patient in need of a consultation or a new patient looking to meet with a surgeon in the Los Angeles area, please feel free to contact us and our staff can set up an appointment for you at your earliest convenience. Please contact at: (310) 231-2121 or use our secure online appointment request form to schedule an appointment at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
Whether you are a current patient in need of a consultation or a new patient looking to meet with a surgeon in the Los Angeles area, please feel free to contact us and our staff can set up an appointment for you at your earliest convenience. Please contact at: (310) 231-2121 or use our secure online appointment request form to schedule an appointment at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
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Nutrition & Dietary Services - The Patient and Family Support Program is a comprehensive resource. Our team is available to patients every step of the way. Patients can always reach out if they have questions or concerns.
Making the right food choices can help patients feel better when they're going through cancer treatment. Our dietitians specialize in nutrition therapy for cancer patients at any stage of their treatment, from diagnosis to survivorship.
We understand nutrition impacts all cancer types and treatments, including radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and surgery. Our dietitians can customize a cancer patient's nutrition care, never losing sight of their individual needs and treatment goals.
Clinical Nutrition Services for Cancer Patients Include:
We understand nutrition impacts all cancer types and treatments, including radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and surgery. Our dietitians can customize a cancer patient's nutrition care, never losing sight of their individual needs and treatment goals.
Clinical Nutrition Services for Cancer Patients Include:
- Guidance for optimal nutrition before and during treatment
- Management of treatment-related side effects impacting nutrition or eating
- Use of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements
- Meal planning for cancer-related weight control
- Support in managing enteral (feeding tube) and parenteral (intravenous, or through the vein) nutrition
- Healthy lifestyle and nutrition choices for cancer prevention, recovery and survivorship
Clinical Nutrition Coordinator–Supervisor
Arlene Provisor, MHA, RD, CSO, CNSC
Nourishing our bodies for strength and energy is critical at every stage of our lives. For our patients, even the slightest changes in dietary choices and timing can dramatically impact their ability to reach their nutrition goals.
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Pain Management & Palliative Care - Description will be soon
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Interventional Radiology - As part of our suite of services The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute provides patients with access to our premier radiology center allowing for convenient on-site state of the art diagnostic and interventional services.
Our team of radiologists are internationally recognized and board certified in: diagnostic, vascular, interventional, neurological and nuclear radiology.
Following a visit with your doctor if imaging or radiology services are required, they can be performed right here where your treatment is already being provided and results/reporting are generally ready for review around one hour after completion. Appointments may vary in duration depending on the type of service being provided.
We currently offer the Radiology services of:
Following a visit with your doctor if imaging or radiology services are required, they can be performed right here where your treatment is already being provided and results/reporting are generally ready for review around one hour after completion. Appointments may vary in duration depending on the type of service being provided.
We currently offer the Radiology services of:
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
- SPECT-Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT)
- Nuclear Therapeutics
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that helps measure how your tissues and organs are functioning. A PET scan uses a radiopharmaceutical or tracer to show this activity. This scan can provides a high degree of accuracy and precision and may sometimes detect disease before it shows up on other types of imaging tests.
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that helps measure how your tissues and organs are functioning. A PET scan uses a radiopharmaceutical or tracer to show this activity. This scan can provides a high degree of accuracy and precision and may sometimes detect disease before it shows up on other types of imaging tests.
SPECT- Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT)
The most advanced form of CT scanning available and one of only 3 SPECT-CT machines in the Los Angeles area. A SPECT-CT scan is a type of nuclear medicine scan where the images or pictures from two different types of scans are combined together. The combined scan can provide precise information about how different parts of the body are working and more clearly identify problems.
SPECT CT scans allow for images to be captured with the highest degree of precision when compared to conventional cameras and allows for nuclear medicine services to be administered with the greatest level of accuracy.
The most advanced form of CT scanning available and one of only 3 SPECT-CT machines in the Los Angeles area. A SPECT-CT scan is a type of nuclear medicine scan where the images or pictures from two different types of scans are combined together. The combined scan can provide precise information about how different parts of the body are working and more clearly identify problems.
SPECT CT scans allow for images to be captured with the highest degree of precision when compared to conventional cameras and allows for nuclear medicine services to be administered with the greatest level of accuracy.
Nuclear Therapeutics
The administration of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic or treatment related purposes, nuclear therapeutics involves the administration of radioisotopes as either an implant or injection. Your Oncologist will work with you and the radiology team at TACRI to determine the most appropriate treatment course should your clinical presentation meet the criteria to benefit from nuclear therapeutic services.
The administration of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic or treatment related purposes, nuclear therapeutics involves the administration of radioisotopes as either an implant or injection. Your Oncologist will work with you and the radiology team at TACRI to determine the most appropriate treatment course should your clinical presentation meet the criteria to benefit from nuclear therapeutic services.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency Ablation is a process that involves the use of a needle to travel underneath the skin to nerve endings in an attempt to destroy nerves or clusters of cancerous cells connected to a particular area of the body. This therapy is useful in the management of pain for cancer patients who require pain management beyond what pharmaceuticals are able to offer and is an effective method for treating and even removing cancer from the body.
Radiofrequency Ablation is a process that involves the use of a needle to travel underneath the skin to nerve endings in an attempt to destroy nerves or clusters of cancerous cells connected to a particular area of the body. This therapy is useful in the management of pain for cancer patients who require pain management beyond what pharmaceuticals are able to offer and is an effective method for treating and even removing cancer from the body.
Image guided radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure and generally patients go home
the day of the procedure. These techniques have achieved marked success within the realm of oncology
including:
Same day testing may be available and results of imaging may be ready in as little as one hour following your appointment.
- The potential cure for liver metastases associated with metastatic colorectal cancer
- Lung cancer
- Renal cancer and adrenal gland cancer
- An alternative to more invasive surgical procedures
- Effective method for lasting chronic pain management that is non narcotic and relieving of the pain associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and cancer itself.
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Tumor tracking
Tumor tracking is a trend type measurement used to evaluate changes in tumors throughout the course of therapy for oncology patients. Multiple diagnostic tools are available to provide the measurements necessary to determine cancer progression. This allows for accurate, individualized and informed decision making between you and your provider.
- Interventional and Vascular Radiology
Interventional radiology is a subspecialty of radiology where image-guided procedures are performed to diagnose and treat diseases involving multiple organ systems and the vasculature. Using the least invasive techniques currently available these procedures are precision based and have less risk, less pain and less recovery time when compared to general surgery.
- Musculoskeletal imaging
Musculoskeletal imaging is a subspecialty of radiology involving the interpretation of images of bones, joints and associated soft tissues and diagnosing injuries and disease.
- X-Ray
An X-ray is a quick, photograph-like test that produces images of the bones inside your body using small amounts of radiation called X-rays. During the test, X-ray beams pass through your body, and they are absorbed in different amounts depending on the material. X-ray imaging is able to allow for the evaluation and interpretation of bones, fat, foreign objects and air within the body.
For some types of X-ray tests, a contrast medium — such as iodine or barium — may be administered to provide a higher quality accuracy and detail. - MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging method which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to build detailed images of the organs and tissues within your body.
MRI machines are commonly large tubes which hold very strong magnets. Patients lie down on a bench which is then slid inside the tube, while inside the magnetic field temporarily moves water within your body while the administration of radio waves allow for images to be taken and compiled into highly accurate 3D renderings of the inside of your body.
We are able to medicate and monitor patients with a history of claustrophobia and anxiety during the MRI procedure when necessary. - Ultrasound
Ultrasound is the generation of images by using the reflection of soundwaves off of the soft tissues that make up your body. Ultrasound procedures are not painful, require little or no preparation and involve the simple application of a gel on top of the area being examined.
Same day testing may be available and results of imaging may be ready in as little as one hour following your appointment.
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Supportive Care - Description will be soon