Radiation Oncology Research

In the Department of Radiation Oncology at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, specialists research the treatment of childhood tumors to find better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat pediatric cancer. The team actively participates in clinical research studies through the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC).

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

Partnering with the Department of Neurological Surgery at UPMC Presbyterian, the Children’s Hospital Radiation Oncology team is studying the use of gamma knife radiosurgery in the treatment of pediatric brain tumors. This advanced surgery manages brain tumors through a unique incision-less procedure.

Partial Liver Irradiation

Researchers are also evaluating the role of partial liver irradiation in preparation for heptocyte cell transplantation for the treatment of patients with genetic metabolism disorders. Preliminary work is ongoing with the Children’s Liver Transplant Center, in hopes that protocol for this treatment will be soon initiated for pediatric patients.

Enroll in a Clinical Study

The Pitt+Me Registry connects community members and patients of all ages with researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC. Parents who enroll their children in the Pitt+Me Registry will learn about research studies in areas of their choosing related to their child’s health.

Learn More About Clinical Studies

• Clinical Study FAQs
• How to Participate in a Clinical Study

Researchers

• John Crowley, MD
• Lynda Flom, MD
• Erica Kar, MD, MPH
• James Mountz, MD, PhD
• Ashok Muthukrishnan, MD
• Amisha Jignesh Shah, MD
• Mubina Quader, PhD
• Sami Ishac Tadros, MD, MSc
• Kevin Vaughan, MD, PhD