Find more information about our radiology and imaging services.

For radiology and imaging appointments, call 949-364-6900

Cancer therapy continues to evolve, with new approaches in medications offering greater effectiveness and fewer side effects. In addition, as new agents and drug combinations come to light, we continue to find better ways to manage tumors and relieve the effects of cancer. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, our board-certified medical oncologists are skilled in the latest medical treatments and routinely collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team of cancer specialists at weekly cancer conferences to identify an individual plan of care for each patient.

Intravenous chemotherapy and other medical treatments are provided in our beautiful infusion center. Working with your medical oncologist and other providers, our chemotherapy-certified oncology nurses provide safe and compassionate care. Services include:

• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Biological therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Intravenous medications
• Targeted therapy
• Injections
• Lab collection
• Port and PICC line management
• Therapeutic phlebotomy
• Blood transfusions
• Education and support
• For added comfort, virtual reality headsets are available for use during treatments.

To contact the infusion center, call 949-573-9477.

Radiation therapy is an effective way to destroy cancer cells. It plays many roles in cancer treatment, from curing or controlling cancer to relieving symptoms caused by the disease. If you are referred to radiation therapy, you will meet with a radiation oncologist, a highly specialized and extensively trained physician who is an expert in a broad array of radiation therapies. Based on your exam and history, your radiation oncologist will explain the ideal treatment options for you and will help you make an informed treatment decision. Throughout your treatment, your radiation oncologist, your registered nurse, and your radiation therapists will monitor you regularly, answer any questions and help you address any side effects.

The radiation oncology program at the Leonard Cancer Institute uses the most advanced technologies to target tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue, including:

• Computerized treatment planning: Using multiple 3D CT (computed tomography) scans, we precisely map the area to be treated, as well as the areas to be shielded, to optimize treatment and minimize side effects.
• Leading-edge linear accelerator: The Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator offers pinpoint accuracy and precision, through several leading-edge capabilities:
• 2D and 3D conformal radiation, which aims multiple radiation beams precisely to conform to a tumor’s exact shape and size and blocks out areas that do not need radiation.
• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which allows the intensity of the radiation beams to be adjusted for specific areas, reducing the effects on healthy tissues.
• Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which makes it possible to correct for subtle changes in tumor location during treatment with millimeter precision.
• Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which delivers high-dose precision radiation to small areas in one to five treatments. This is commonly used for brain, lung, bone, and liver tumors.
• Brainlab ExacTrac Dynamic: This precision patient monitoring uses thermal-surface tracking technology with real time X-ray tracking, for extraordinary accuracy.
• Brainlab Elements software, which allows for state-of-the-art, highly precise planning for multiple brain metastases.
• Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT): This treatment takes place in the operating room during surgery, using sophisticated technology to apply a single, large dose of radiation directly to the tumor site.
• Brachytherapy: This method delivers radiation by placing radioactive sources inside the body, either within or adjacent to tumor tissue.
• High-dose rate brachytherapy (HDR) delivers a high dose of radiation to a limited area inside the body, used for breast and gynecologic malignancies.
• Low-dose rate brachytherapy (LDR) uses low dose radiation for prostate cancer using permanent I-125 seed implants.

To contact the radiation oncology department, call 949-573-9560.

The Leonard Cancer Institute partners with renowned surgeons who play an important role in many of our cancer patients’ treatment. Our board-certified surgical oncologists are expertly trained at completely removing tumors from the breast, colon, lung, prostate, pancreas, and kidney to name a few.  Additionally, our surgeons follow the latest NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) guidelines in staging and treating tumors.

To make the best state-of-the-art recommendations for post-surgery treatments, our surgical oncologists present patient cases at our multidisciplinary conferences. The recommendations can include chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and even enrollment in clinical trials.

Our specialized surgeons employ the latest in robotic technology to perform minimally invasive procedures. Robotic surgery has shorter recovery times, less pain, fewer complications and incredible outcomes.

Find more information about robotic surgery.

The Cancer Genetics Program at the Leonard Cancer Institute offers genetic testing and counseling to shift the focus from uncertainty to empowerment and prevention. Our licensed, board-certified genetic counselors provide detailed risk assessments to help you understand your personal cancer risks. If you opt for genetic testing, your counselor will identify the most useful tests for your particular risks. After testing, your counselor will interpret your results, review them with you and recommend individualized screening and preventive measures that can empower you to minimize your risks.

We offer multiple service options to meet individual needs for genetic testing, including:

• In-person appointments, telehealth appointments and walk-in clinics.
• Full-service genetic counseling for the most comprehensive pre-test and post-test engagement.
• Walk-in genetic clinics with rapid sample collection for convenient genetic testing that includes expert coordination and oversight by a licensed board-certified genetic counselor.
• Post-test genetic counseling for individuals who have had previous genetic testing and would like an updated or expert interpretation of their results, would like to consider having updated or additional testing, or would benefit from having a formal comprehensive risk assessment.

The Leonard Cancer Institute also offers cancer patients the unique advantage of a somatic molecular genomic testing laboratory within our own Providence health system. Our specialists routinely perform advanced genomic testing to identify the DNA alterations driving the growth of our patients’ tumors. This allows us to identify treatments and clinical trials that target these specific mutations, resulting in more precise, effective treatment and fewer side effects.

To learn more about genetic and genomic testing, or to make a genetic counseling appointment, call 949-573-9492.

In addition to treating cancer, the Leonard Cancer Institute offers rehabilitation therapies to help you recover from the physical effects of cancer and its treatment. Our physical therapists, speech therapists and occupational therapists customize your therapy to help minimize the side effects of your cancer treatment, optimize your healing process, maximize your function and restore your quality of life. Using proven therapies and techniques, our therapists work with you one-on-one to address specific issues such as:

• Weakness
• Balance and walking issues
• Fatigue and low energy
• Lymphedema swelling
• Difficulty swallowing and eating
• Trouble speaking
• Restricted or weak oral and facial movements

For rehabilitation appointments, please call 949-573-9465.

Cancer treatment sometimes causes lymphedema, a buildup of fluid that causes swelling in the arms, legs, or other areas. Within the Leonard Cancer Institute’s rehabilitation program, we offer a specialized lymphedema program to help address these issues. If you have a cancer surgery that increases your risk of lymphedema, your surgeon may refer you to the program after surgery to learn how to reduce your risk of developing lymphedema. If treatment is needed, our therapists use specialized techniques to help your body reabsorb the accumulated fluid and to reduce swelling and discomfort.

For lymphedema program appointments, call 949-573-9465.

The Breast Program at Providence Mission Hospital is devoted to advancing women’s breast health through comprehensive screenings, education, diagnosis, treatment and support. Our personalized care and support include:

• Leading-edge diagnostics, including:
• Tomosynthesis (“3D” mammography), which creates 2D and 3D pictures of the breasts that improves the ability of mammography to detect early breast cancers and decrease the number of women “called back” for additional tests.
• Diagnostic ultrasound
• Breast MRI with computer-aided detection (CAD)
• PET/CT scans, as needed
• Breakthrough therapies, including:
• Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), an innovative treatment that takes place in the operating room during surgery, using sophisticated equipment to apply a single, large dose of radiation directly to the tumor site.
• SAVI brachytherapy, a five-day course of targeted radiation therapy (APBI) for early-stage breast cancer.
• Patient navigators to provide support, education and access to resources
• Genetic counseling
• Clinical trials
• Oncology dietitian
• Social work services
• Breast cancer treatment educational materials provided to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients
• Financial navigation
• Valiant Spa and Wellness Corner, which offers services for comfort and healing
• Massage therapy, naturopath and acupuncturist

Esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and other cancers of the digestive system.

Cancers of the bladder, kidney, prostate and testicles.

Women’s reproductive cancers, including cancers of the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina and vulva.

Our team provides screening, early detection, treatment and rehabilitation for cancers that start in the mouth, throat, larynx, thyroid, nose or sinuses.

Blood, bone marrow and lymphatic systems, including leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and lung cancer accounts for more deaths than any other cancer (colon, breast, prostate, pancreatic) in both men and women. Early-stage lung cancer is much more curable than those found in later stages. Despite this fact, only about 15% of lung cancers are currently diagnosed at this early stage.

Tobacco use (both current and former) accounts for about 80% of all newly diagnosed lung cancers. Quitting smoking can significantly improve survivability and reduce the risk of cancer reoccurring later. The Leonard Cancer Institute offers a free, on-site smoking cessation program.

Early detection of lung cancer is possible with a special x-ray technology called Low Radiation Dose CT (LDCT). LDCT is a special imaging technique that creates cross-sectional pictures of the lungs allowing doctors to find nodules or spots that may represent cancer. LDCT screening is fast, non-invasive and painless. Radiation levels used in LDCT are less than conventional CT scans. A landmark national research study called the National Lung Screening Trial demonstrated that patients considered to be at high risk for developing lung cancer had a 20% lower risk of death from lung cancer than patients who were not screened early with LDCT.

Screening with LDCT is not a guarantee that a person will not get cancer and LDCT is not a “one and done” activity. LDCT is typically done once per year with more frequent scanning if there are any suspicious nodules or spots.

As a preventative health benefit, patients who are considered high risk for lung cancer are eligible for LDCT screening covered by insurance or Medicare. Eligibility criteria can be found here.

If you don’t meet the criteria, you may still be eligible for screening. Ask your doctor for more information.

Our LDCT scanners have been accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) specifically for low-radiation lung screening, ensuring the scanner is calibrated to give the lowest possible radiation necessary.

All scans are reviewed by board-certified radiologists. Abnormal screens are reviewed by a multi-disciplinary team of specialists to make evidence–based recommendations for your care using state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options not available in most other hospitals.

Our dedicated team will help you coordinate your LDCT appointment, follow up care and communication between the specialist team and your physician.

We offer a free, five-session smoking cessation program. To register, or for more information, call 866-NEW-LUNG (639-5864).

1. Contact your doctor. Your LDCT will require a doctor’s order.
2. To find a physician call 877-459-DOCS (3627).
3. If you are still smoking, start the process of quitting today and sign up for smoking cessation at 866-NEW-LUNG (639-5864).

For questions or more information about LDCT screening, contact Christine Reilly MS Ed, RRT, pulmonary navigator at
949-573-9492, ext. 4065 or send an email.

Cutaneous malignancies (skin cancers), including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and others.

Primary cancers of the brain and central nervous system. We also treat cancers that originate in other areas and metastasize to the brain or spine.

Cancers that start in the bones or soft tissues, such as muscle or fat.

We offer several cancer support groups to help patients cope with the emotional and spiritual challenges surrounding a cancer diagnosis. Contact Khanhi Nguyen, LCSW at 949-573-9492 ex 4069.

Connect with other newly diagnosed patients and a certified breast cancer navigator to talk about your journey and build a firm informational foundation.

• Meets first Monday of each month, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
• Currently on Zoom – email invitation sent before each meeting
• Facilitator: Leonard Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Navigator, Susann Burnett, RN, BS, CN-BN

For more information, call (949) 347-6062.

Find strength and hope with other survivors before, during, and after your treatment.

• Meets second and fourth Mondays, 6–8 p.m.
• Currently on Zoom – email invitation sent before each meeting
• When social distancing regulations allow:
  Leonard Cancer Institute for Cancer Treatment, Prevention and Wellness
  27799 Medical Center Rd, 2nd Floor, Suite 250-Pellini Board Room, Mission Viejo, 92691
• Facilitator: Leonard Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Navigator, Susann Burnett, RN, BS, CN-BN

For more information, call 949-347-6062.

• Se reune el primer lunes del mes, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. en Zoom
• Facilitadora: Enfermera Navegadora del Cancer de Mama de el Hospital de Mission, Eileen Helfeld

Para obtener mas informacion, llame al 949-347-6071.

A group specifically addressing the needs of women who have recurrent and/or metastatic breast cancer.

• Meets first and third Tuesday of every month, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
• Currently on Zoom-email invitation sent before each meeting
• When social distancing regulations allow:
  Leonard Cancer Institute 
  27799 Medical Center Rd, 2nd Floor, Suite 250-Pellini Board Room, Mission Viejo, 92691

Eating well can be a challenge when you’re going through cancer treatment, but it’s very important. Good nutrition gives your body the fuel and support it needs to heal, to recover, to maintain a healthy weight, and to feel and stay well. Our board-certified, registered oncology dietitians provide nutrition education and support from diagnosis through survivorship. If you’re having trouble eating, are losing weight, or are concerned about potential nutrient deficiencies or treatment side effects that impact eating, we’re here to help. 

To make an appointment with a dietitian, call 949-392-3357.

If the stress of your cancer diagnosis is affecting your life or your family, please let us know. Our licensed clinical oncology social worker can help you manage the emotional and practical stressors related to a cancer diagnosis, from treatment through survivorship. Our services include counseling for individuals, couples and families; assistance with advance health care planning; help with care coordination; and referrals to other resources such as support groups and financial assistance.

To meet with a social worker in person, by phone or virtually, call 949-573-9492, ext. 4069.

A diagnosis of cancer can put someone at high risk for experiencing financial difficulty. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, we provide services to help ease your way through financial concerns and barriers. Our financial care navigator will help you:

• Evaluate insurance health plans to ensure the right choices are made for your care
• Leverage available programs and services, such as co-pay assistance and patient assistance programs to help reduce financial barriers
• Optimize external assistance programs, such as patient financial support programs

To speak with our financial navigator, call 949-573-9492, ext. 4063.

Palliative care is appropriate for any stage of a curable, chronic or life-threatening illness. Our providers work collaboratively with your physicians to provide comfort and symptom relief while you’re undergoing aggressive treatment so that you can maintain the highest possible quality of life. We help relieve serious symptoms such as pain, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, constipation, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, depression and anxiety. The focus of palliative care is to help you gain the strength you need to carry on with daily life, to improve your ability to tolerate your medical treatments, and to provide support and guidance for you and your family.

To speak with a palliative care provider, call 949-364-1400, ext. 7668.