Not Just for Tumors: Low-Dose Radiation for Tricky Benign Conditions
1.0 CE Credit Hour / Siobhan Haney, VMD, MS, DACVR (RO), MBA
Siobhan Haney, VMD, MS, DACVR (RO), MBA
Dr. Siobhan Haney is a board-certified veterinary radiation oncologist practicing at BluePearl Pet Hospital and the BluePearl Veterinary CyberKnife Cancer Center in Malvern, Pennsylvania. She specializes in advanced cancer treatments for companion animals, including CyberKnife stereotactic radiation therapy, intensitymodulated radiation therapy (IMRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and palliative care. Dr. Haney has lectured nationally and internationally and has contributed to multiple studies on conventional and stereotactic radiation therapies. She completed her residency at Tufts University and earned her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a Master of Science in Biology from Rutgers University and an MBA from Pennsylvania State University. Outside of work, Dr. Haney enjoys organizing, exploring fine art and historic homes, staying active on her Peloton, and spending time with her husband and two children.
Overview:
Radiation therapy is not just for cancer—it can also provide effective treatment for certain refractory, non-cancerous conditions. This session explores how low-dose radiation can be used to manage frustrating benign diseases such as feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), chronic stomatitis, and other challenging cases. Participants will learn the principles behind these treatments, patient selection criteria, and practical considerations for integrating radiation therapy into the management of non-malignant diseases, offering clients alternative options when conventional therapies fail.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify common non-cancerous diseases that may benefit from low-dose radiation therapy.
- Explain the principles and mechanisms of radiation therapy for benign conditions.
- Assess patient eligibility and suitability for radiation treatment based on disease characteristics and prior therapies.
- Develop treatment plans incorporating low-dose radiation as part of a multimodal management strategy.
- Evaluate outcomes and potential complications, and adjust therapy protocols to optimize patient care.
This course is RACE-approved for 1.0 continuing education credits hours in jurisdictions that accept RACE-approval.