STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — Trinity Health System’s Tony Teramana Cancer Center is rolling out a new line of radiation therapy that’s set to change the way chronic osteoarthritis is treated in the Ohio Valley.
The service, which uses low-dose radiation to alleviate pain in patients who have not responded to conventional therapies, is already common in parts of Europe, especially Germany — and now, it’s making its mark in the United States.
“This is a treatment that’s been widely used overseas for years, but we’re now seeing growing acceptance here in the U.S.,” said Dr. Mark Trombetta, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Trinity. “It’s particularly effective for patients who haven’t found relief through injections, medications, or surgery.”
The therapy involves six low-dose radiation treatments, each lasting about five minutes, spread out over two weeks. It’s designed for patients ages 50 and older suffering from chronic joint pain — particularly in the knees or hands — who have exhausted other options. According to Dr. Trombetta, approximately 70% of patients experience significant pain relief after undergoing the treatment.
“There are virtually no long-term side effects,” added Gretchen Heizler, Manager of Radiation Oncology Services at the center. “It’s quick, it’s safe, and it’s focused on improving quality of life. Many of our patients just want to return to daily activities that pain has kept them from enjoying.”
The Tony Teramana Cancer Center is the first facility in the Ohio Valley to offer this service. And while it is administered in a cancer center, the treatment is specifically for non-cancer conditions — a distinction the team is working to educate the community about.
“Some people still hear ‘radiation’ and think cancer. But radiation has therapeutic uses beyond oncology,” said Dr. Trombetta. “We use it to treat certain heart conditions, skin diseases, and now, chronic orthopedic issues. It’s not something to be afraid of.”
Dr. Trombetta added that this new low-dose radiation treatment for osteoarthritis does not cause the patient’s hair to fall out.
Heizler noted that the Cancer Center’s supportive environment helps patients feel at ease. “We’ve been serving this community for over 25 years. Our reputation is built on compassionate, quality care — and this new treatment is just another way we’re living up to that mission.”
Patients interested in the therapy should start by speaking with their primary care physician or specialist. If referred, they’ll undergo a consultation to determine if they’re a candidate. Once approved by insurance — which typically covers the treatment in appropriate cases — appointments are scheduled, and the therapy begins.
“It’s not for everyone, but for those who qualify, it can be life-changing,” said Dr. Trombetta. “If we can help someone avoid surgery or finally find relief after years of discomfort, that’s a win.”
For more information or to inquire about eligibility, patients can contact the Tony Teramana Cancer Center at Trinity Health System in Steubenville via their website or by phone at 740-264-8700.
