Our Expertise

The recently completed expansion of the Lefcourt Family Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center represents a new standard of cancer care, where patients are not a number, but rather treated as priority guests. Our empathetic staff will guide you and your family through everything you need to know about screening and genetic testing, your specific type of cancer, options for treatment, appointments, and support services available to you. The cancer center is a Compre­hensive Community Cancer Program, designated by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. We’ve acquired cutting-edge technology and physician expertise found in larger academic medical centers but without the need to travel for it. Our specialists, recruited from major national training programs, have advanced skills and training in the most recent techniques, providing an elevated level of cancer care with the newest treatments and access to major clinical trials.

Patient Education Materials

TLC: Treatment Learning Class was created for newly diagnosed cancer patients at The Lefcourt Family Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center at Englewood Health. It includes what you can expect as a patient, including:

• Nutrition
• Palliative Care
• Support Services
• Infusion
• Radiation Oncology

To view this information, please request access.

Awards and Accreditations

Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is nationally recognized for medical excellence and patient safety. The Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center is a Compre­hensive Community Cancer Program, designated by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Our Radiation Oncology Department is accredited by the American Col­lege of Radiation Oncology. The breast care center is accredited by the American College of Radiology and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

Healthgrades 5-Star Recipient
• Transurethral Prostate Resection Surgery

Healthgrades Prostate Surgery Excellence Awards
• Prostate Surgery – Top 10% in Nation

U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals”: High-Performing
• Colon Cancer Surgery

Support Services

Englewood Hospital offers ongoing support services for people living with cancer. We understand that when you have cancer, there’s a lot going through you mind. During this difficult time, a support system can help ease your anxiety. Support groups are led by a facilitator. For more information, call  201-608-2162.

Fitness After Cancer Program

Englewood Health and Kaplen JCC on the Palisades (JCC) are pleased to join together to offer the Wellness and Longevity Program. If you have completed cancer treatment, the Wellness and Longevity: Fitness After Cancer Program can help you lead a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle. This five-week fitness and wellness program is open to patients with their doctor’s approval who meet certain criteria. And because it’s guided by medical and fitness experts, you can be assured that your safety and health come first.

Now accepting registration for future programs.

Key Features

• Physician-developed program
• Training by certified cancer specialists
• Supervised private-group workouts focusing on:
  • Increasing flexibility and endurance
  • Resistance-strength training progression
  • Improving energy levels and self esteem
• Access to Kaplen JCC on the Palisades

What to Expect

1. Warm-Up: Welcome to the Program
At this 90-minute introductory session, you will hear an overview of the program and meet and hear from the fitness, and medical experts who helped design it.

2. Workout Program: Group Fitness Classes
Held at the JCC and led by certified personal trainers, these classes will be tailored to the individual needs of the participants, based on personal assessments and guidance from our board-certified oncologists. These 50-minute classes take place twice a week for 5 weeks (10 sessions total). In addition, a mid-point check-in with our team of experts will take place halfway through the program to help make sure you are on track with your health and fitness goals.

3. The Extra Mile: Access to the JCC Gym
You will have full access to the JCC gym at no additional cost for the duration of the 5-week program. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a one-month JCC membership, two personal training sessions, and exclusive discounts.

4. Cool Down: Wrap-Up Session
This 90-minute final session will give you the opportunity to learn additional tips and strategies to make wellness a lifelong goal.

Fee

The cost for the entire program is $100. Most insurance companies do not cover this program, but it may be eligible for reimbursement through your health spending account or flexible spending account. Speak to your account administrator for more information.

Eligibility and Registration

The program is open to cancer patients who have completed treatment with an approval form signed by their doctor. To register or to express your interest, please complete this form.

Clinical Trials and Research

Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is focused on clinical trials and research targeting effective treatments, risk of recurrence, and survival outcomes for people with digestive, breast, lung/thoracic, and hepatobiliary cancers, among others. Working with institutions like the National Cancer Institute will help us to study the biology of cancer cells and understand what drugs will be the most effective in fighting that type of cancer.

Open Clinical Trials

Hematology (Benign)
“An Open-Label Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Avatrombopag for the Treatment of Subjects With Thrombocytopenia Scheduled for a Surgical Procedure”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Maxwell Jonosky
Coordinator: Sam Nossir
Phone: 201-608-2139
NCT#: NCT03326843; EHMC IRB#: E-18-727
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Brain Cancer
“Randomized Phase II Study: Corticosteroids + Bevacizumab vs. Corticosteroids + Placebo (BeSt) for Radionecrosis after Radiosurgery for Brain Metastases”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Maxwell Janosky
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT02490878; EHMC IRB# E-17-711
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Breast Cancer
“COMET: “”Comparison Of Operative To Monitoring and Endocrine Therapy (COMET) Trial For Low Risk DCIS: A Phase III Prospective Randomized Trial”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Steven Brower
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT02926911; EHMC IRB # E-17-710
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)                               

Oncology/Breast Cancer
B-51: “Standard or Comprehensive Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients with Early-Stage Breast Cancer Previously Treated With Chemotherapy and Surgery”
Principal Investigator: Dr. David Dubin
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT01872975; EHMC IRB#: E-16-651
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Breast Cancer
PALLAS: “PALbociclib CoLlaborative Adjuvant Study: A randomized phase III trial of Palbociclib with standard adjuvant endocrine therapy versus standard adjuvant endocrine therapy alone for hormone receptor positive (HR+) / human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative early breast cancer”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Michael Schleider
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT02513394; EHMC IRB#: E-15-628
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Breast Cancer
A011401: “Randomized Phase III Trial Evaluating the Role of Weight Loss in Adjuvant Treatment of Overweight and Obese Women with Early Breast Cancer”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Jill Morrison
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3608
NCT#: NCT02750826; EHMC IRB#: E-16-663
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Breast Cancer
“Aspirin in Preventing Recurrence of Cancer in Patients With Node Positive HER2 Negative Stage II-III Breast Cancer After Chemotherapy, Surgery, and/or Radiation Therapy”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Jill Morrison
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT02927249; EHMC IRB#: E-17-682
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Colorectal Cancer
N1048 PROSPECT: “A Phase II/ III Neoadjuvant FOLFOX with Selective Use of Combined Modality Chemoradiation vs. Preoperative Combined Modality Chemoradiation for locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Pts. Undergoing Low Anterior Resection with Total Mesorectal Excision”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Minaxi Jhawer
Coordinator: Sam Nossir
Phone: 201-608-2139
NCT#: NCT01515787; EHMC IRB#: E-15-632
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Colorectal Cancer
NRG-GI002: “A Phase II Clinical Trial Platform of Sensitization Utilizing Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT) in Rectal Cancer”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Minaxi Jhawer
Coordinator: Sam Nossir
Phone: 201-608-2139
NCT#: NCT02921256; EHMC IRB#: E-18-722
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Gastric Cancer
IMIGASTRIC II: “Prospective, observational, multicenter study on minimally invasive gastrectomy for gastric cancer: robotic, laparoscopic and open surgery compared on operative and follow-up outcomes.”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Steven Brower
Coordinator: Andrew Brunnquell
Phone: 201-894-3186
NCT#: NCT02751086; EHMC IRB#: E-16-673
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Gynecologic Cancer
OVARIO: “A Phase 2, Single-Arm, Open-Label Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Niraparib Combined with Bevacizumab as Maintenance Treatment in Patients with Advanced Ovarian Cancer, Fallopian Tube Cancer, or Primary Peritoneal Cancer Following Front-Line Platinum-Based Chemotherapy with Bevacizumab”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Nimesh Nagarsheth
Coordinator: Sam Nossir
Phone: 201-894-2139
NCT#: NCT03326193; EHMC IRB#: E-18-725
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Lung Cancer
NRG-CC003: “Randomized Phase II/III Trial of Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation with or without Hippocampal Avoidance for Small Cell Lung Cancer”
Principal Investigator: Dr. David Dubin
Coordinator: Audrey Ades
Phone: 201-894-3603
NCT#: NCT02635009; EHMC#: E-16-672
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Lymphoma
Magnify: “A Phase 3b Randomized Study of Lenalidomide (CC-5013) Plus Rituximab maintenance therapy followed by Lenalidomide single-agent maintenance versus Rituximab maintenance in subjects with relapsed/refractory follicular, marginal zone or mantle cell lymphoma”
Principal Investigator: Dr. Francis Forte
Coordinator: Francesca Flink
Phone: 201-894-3917
NCT#: NCT01996865; EHMC IRB#: E-14-558
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

Oncology/Pancreatic
A Phase III Study of BBI-608 plus nab-Paclitaxel with Gemcitabine in Adult Patients with Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Minaxi Jhawer
Coordinator: Francesca Flink
Phone: 201-894-3917
NCT#: NCT02993731; EHMC IRB#: E-17-698
More Information (clinicaltrials.gov link)

For additional information on active clinical trials at Englewood Hospital, visit the Clinical Research Center page.

Blood Cancer

Our medical oncologists provide treatment for cancers of the blood, such as lymphoma and leukemia, which affects the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells. Using advanced diagnostic tools and targeted anticancer drugs among other infusion treatments, our specialists provide total cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship.

Treatment

Your personalized care plan may include infusion therapy and other medical treatments. To create a more private and comfortable experience, the Infusion Center has 24 private bays, each featuring a comfortable recliner, television, and a touchscreen tablet with free Internet. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow for natural light and a dimming feature allows you to brighten or soften the room’s overhead lighting to your desired setting. The space was designed to be comfortable and relaxing yet functional.

Support services

We offer a range of supportive services to provide whole-body care, including a patient navigator who can assist with appointments and follow-up care as well as support groups and integrative medicine, which offers evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture for chemotherapy-related symptoms, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, among others.

Types of blood cancer:

• Acute lymphocytic leukemia
• Acute myeloid leukemia
• Chronic myeloid leukemia
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Brain Cancer

Our neuro-oncology team offers a range of highly innovative surgical and radiosurgical procedures and techniques to treat cancer of the brain and spine. These tumors are generally categorized as either primary in which the cells grow quickly (high grade) or slowly (low grade), or metastatic in which the cancer originated in another part of the body and then spread to the brain. Our neurosurgeons work in conjunction with neurologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists to customize a cancer treatment plan using well-established and safe techniques to improve results.

Diagnostics

If a brain tumor is suspected, our team will review your medical history, conduct a neurologic exam, and evaluate the abnormal tissue using diagnostic imaging such as computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography/computerized tomography (PET/CT) scans to produce precise and accurate images of the body. Our CT scan shows detailed structural anatomy. To see internal body structures, we use MRI, which uses radio waves and a powerful magnetic field to produce cross-sectional images that can clearly map out soft tissue. We’re home to three MRI machines, including the latest generation short-bore MRI, which provides first-rate imaging quality, faster scans, and a more comfortable experience for patients. Our PET/CT machine allows doctors to get highly defined 3D images from the inside of the body with only one system and during one appointment, revealing information about the structure and functional status of the area of interest. Our in-house pathology team analyzes the tissue samples to determine the precise type and stage of the cancer, allowing physicians and patients to get results quickly.

Treatment

Your personalized care plan may include surgery, radiation therapy, infusion therapy, and other medical treatments. To treat brain cancer with surgery, we use a craniotomy procedures—a surgical opening made in the skull—to find the exact location of the tumor that needs to be treated. A stereotactic craniotomy uses computer guided imagery, incorporating information from diagnostic tests, to create a 3D image of the brain and tumor, which allows surgeons to differentiate between healthy brain tissue and the tumor. This allows for minimally invasive techniques to be used where small incisions, scopes, and surgical cameras reduce the amount of bone needed to be removed and minimizes damage to surrounding brain tissue. This approach, called endoscopic craniotomy, can also be used to locate deeply implanted tumors—once considered inoperable.

We also use an FDA-approved technology called gamma knife surgery, a type of radiation therapy used to treat only the malignant area. This techniques allows physicians to locate the tumor with pinpoint accuracy while sparring healthy tissues as a result of 3D MRI brain imaging. It is often effective in one treatment and performed on an outpatient basis. Patients are not asked to restrict their daily routine after treatment.

Support services

We offer a range of supportive services to provide whole-body care, including a patient navigator who can assist with appointments and follow-up care as well as support groups and integrative medicine, which offers evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture for chemotherapy-related symptoms, therapeutic massage, yoga, among others.

Types of brain cancer:

• Acoustic neuroma
• Craniopharyngioma
• Meningioma
• Pituitary tumors
• Optic nerve glioma
• Oligodendroglioma
• Medulloblastoma
• Glioblastoma multiforme
• Glioma
• Fibrillary astrocytomas
• Craniopharyngioma

Breast Cancer

Our multidisciplinary team of specialists have expertise in treating common, rare, and hard-to-treat breast cancers, including  triple negative breast cancer, which may resist some forms of treatment. Using advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge surgical techniques, targeted anticancer drugs, and precision radiation therapy, our specialists provide total breast cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship. Our early detection and prevention efforts include a breast cancer screening.

Screening and diagnostics

Using advanced screening and diagnostics, you’ll receive personalized attention in The Leslie Simon Breast Care and Cytodiagnosis Center to determine if you have breast cancer, inclusive of the type and stage. The Breast Care Center features state-of-the-art digital and 3D mammography and also offers breast ultrasound. We are home to one of the few all-digital mammography centers in New Jersey, combining state-of-the-art diagnostic procedures and completing evaluations in hours rather than days. Our breast MRI system offers exceptional imaging for patients at high risk of breast cancer and those who need a more precise exam. Our pathologists are experts in the diagnosis of breast cancer. Whenever possible, we use ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to obtain tissue to analyze for breast cancer cells, which may produce faster results with fewer side effects. This type of screening is available at select locations.

Treatment

Your personalized care plan may include surgery, radiation therapy, infusion therapy, and other medical treatments. If surgery is part of your care plan, we often perform operations with minimally invasive techniques, using laparoscopy or robotic surgery. To effectively treat breast cancer while conserving as much of the breast as possible, our fellowship-trained breast surgeons perform lumpectomies to only remove the tumor and maintain the cosmetic appearance, whenever feasible. Our plastic surgeons are available to perform reconstructive surgery at the time of mastectomy or at a later time, if desired. Our surgeons are very selective when it comes to underarm lymph node surgery (sentinel node biopsy), used to determine if any cancer cells have spread from the tumor. If the sentinel nodes are free of cancer cells, additional lymph nodes are not removed. By taking a conservative approach to underarm (axillary) lymph node removal, your chance of developing arm swelling and discomfort (lymphedema) can be reduced. Lymphedema sometimes occurs after lymph nodes have been removed.

For patients who undergo radiation therapy as part of their care plan, we offer advanced treatments that finely target radiation to tumor tissue while sparing as much nearby healthy tissue as possible. To treat the whole breast, we use intensity-modulated radiation therapy in which radiation is delivered consistently and at different intensities contoured to the shape of the tumor. We also offer hypofractionated radiation therapy, which administers radiation in higher doses over fewer visits to reduce overall treatment time and minimize side effects. Partial-breast radiation focuses the radiation only on the affected area and occurs after a lumpectomy to remove the tumor. For some types of therapy, we deliver the radiation in the prone position where a patient lies facedown with the breast hanging through an opening in the treatment table to precisely target the tumor while sparring the lungs and heart.

Cancer risk assessment

Those who have inherited mutations to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer and breast cancer. BRAC1 and BRAC2 are genes that produce tumor suppressor proteins. If one or both genes are damaged, cells may develop other genetic mutations that lead to cancer. Research has shown that certain populations, like those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, may have a higher incidence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Our genetic counselors are available to advise individuals and families with a history of cancer, such as ovarian, endometrial/uterine cancer, about their increased risk and options to manage that risk, such as more frequent breast cancer screening or prophylactic surgery. Genetic testing is available should you wish to receive it.

Support services

As part of our commitment to whole-body care, the Graf Center for Integrative Medicine offers evidence-based therapies, including acupuncture for chemotherapy-related symptoms, massage for lymphedema after breast surgery or lymph node removal, gentle yoga for breast cancer patients, nutritional counseling, among others. We also offer support services such as a patient navigator who can help with appointments and follow-up care and support groups.

Types of breast cancer:

• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
• Tubular Carcinoma of the Breast (IDC Type)
• Medullary Carcinoma of the Breast (IDC Type)
• Mucinous Carcinoma of the Breast (IDC Type)
• Papillary Carcinoma of the Breast (IDC Type)
• Cribriform Carcinoma of the Breast (IDC Type)
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
• Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer
• Triple Negative Breast Cancer
• Male Breast Cancer
• Recurrent and Metastatic Breast Cancer
• Paget disease of the Breast or Nipple
• Phyllodes tumor
• Angiosarcoma

Colorectal and Digestive Cancers

Our board-certified gastrointestinal and colorectal surgeons use surgical and nonsurgical methods to effectively treat cancer of the colon, rectum, and digestive system. Using advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge surgical techniques, targeted anticancer drugs, and precision radiation therapy, our specialists provide total cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship. Our early detection and prevention efforts include a colorectal cancer screening.

Screening and diagnostics

To determine if colorectal cancer  is present, we rely on a variety of diagnostic and screening tools,  including  virtual colonoscopy, which uses the latest high-speed spiral computerized tomography (CT) scanners—eight times faster than conventional CT technology—to provide detailed images of the anatomy, allowing us to detect the presence of polyps or other abnormal growths that can lead to cancer. A virtual colonoscopy is recommended for patients who do not want to undergo a conventional colonoscopy. It is also a good alternative for patients who have difficult colonoscopic examinations. If polyps or other abnormal growths are found during a virtual colonoscopy, a standard colonoscopy is usually performed to remove them. Our in-house pathology team analyzes the tissue samples to determine the precise type and stage of the cancer, many times providing physicians with results within a few hours.

Some people with advanced digestive cancers benefit from interventional endoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure performed through a scope inserted into the esophagus to relieve blockages and narrowed areas that may be causing discomfort. These techniques are especially helpful for improving quality of life in some people with esophageal, pancreatic, and bile duct cancers. Until recently, they were primarily available at academic medical centers. These techniques include endoscopic ultrasound in which a physician uses a special endoscope with high-energy sound waves to see inside of the digestive tract. It is sometimes combined with other procedures to diagnose and treat problems in the digestive tract. A second technique is called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which is used to find and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. Using X-rays and an endoscope, a physician can see inside the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum) to check for abnormalities. If there is a blocked duct, the doctor can insert a tiny tube called a stent to open it up and keep it open, relieving a patient’s symptoms.

Treatment

If surgery is needed, we use minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic surgery, whenever possible. This method generally results in less pain and a faster recovery compared with traditional surgery.  Tens of thousands of people each year learn they have liver cancer that has spread there from colorectal cancer in which nearly 50 percent of patients with colorectal cancer developing liver metastases during the course of the disease. We offer customized care for people with liver cancers that can be removed surgically as well as tumors that are inoperable. We use advanced navigational imaging to pinpoint the size and location of these tumors. Our multidisciplinary team, including interventional radiologists and surgeons, work together to perform laparoscopic and CT guided microwave ablation and Y90 ablation to treat liver metastases when surgery is not an option or in combination with surgery.

Support services

We offer support services such as a patient navigator who can help with appointments and follow-up care, support groups, as well as integrative medicine, offering evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture for chemotherapy-related symptoms, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, stress management, and more.

Types of colorectal and digestive cancer:

• Colon cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Stomach cancer

Gynecologic Cancer

Our specialists have expertise in treating common, rare, and hard-to-treat gynecologic cancers. Using advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge technologies and the latest surgical techniques, our specialists provide total gynecologic cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship. Your treatment plan may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or other infusion therapies, among others.

Treatment

Your personalized treatment plan may include surgery, radiation therapy, infusion therapy, or other medical treatments. There are different ways to treat gynecologic cancer with surgery. There is open surgery, minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery. For people who are eligible, we use minimally invasive robotic technology to perform complex and delicate procedures to treat gynecologic cancer. This robotic technology includes a 3D high definition video for greater visualization during surgery and enhanced technical abilities that allows surgeons to operate with greater control and precision using tiny incisions. Minimally invasive techniques may lead to a faster recovery with less pain.

Cancer risk assessment

Those who have inherited mutations to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer and breast cancer. BRAC1 and BRAC2 are genes that produce tumor suppressor proteins. If one or both genes are damaged, cells may develop other genetic mutations that lead to cancer. Research has shown that certain populations, like those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, may have a higher incidence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Our genetic counselors are available to advise individuals and families with a history of cancer, such as ovarian, endometrial/uterine cancer, about their increased risk and options to manage that risk, such as more frequent breast cancer screening or prophylactic surgery. Genetic testing is available should you wish to receive it.

Support services

We offer support services such as support groups, a patient navigator who can help with appointments and follow-up care, as well as integrative medicine, offering evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, stress management, and more.

Types of gynecologic cancer:

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine/endometrial cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer

Liver, Pancreatic, and Bile Duct Cancers

Our multidisciplinary team of specialists treat cancers of the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts, as well as rarer tumors such as peri-ampullary cancers of the pancreas, bile duct, and duodenum, and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Using advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge surgical techniques, targeted anticancer drugs, and precision radiation therapy, our specialists provide total cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship.

Infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading cause of liver cancer, and is especially common among people born in Asia. Our team includes experts who understand this risk. If you have HBV, we can tailor a program of care that includes treatment for your HBV infection, screening for family members, and education and guidance about how you and your family can reduce your liver cancer risk.

Diagnostics

To evaluate if cancer is present in the pancreas, we use computerized tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide detailed images of the anatomy, allowing us to detect the presence of polyps or other abnormal growths that can lead to cancer.  Our in-house pathology team analyzes the tissue samples to determine the precise type and stage of the cancer, allowing physicians and patients to get results quickly.

Some people with advanced digestive cancers may also benefit from interventional endoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure performed through a scope inserted into the esophagus to relieve blockages and narrowed areas that may be causing discomfort. These techniques are especially helpful for improving quality of life in some people with esophageal, pancreatic, and bile duct cancers. Until recently, they were primarily available at academic medical centers. These techniques include endoscopic ultrasound in which a physician uses a special endoscope with high-energy sound waves to see inside of the digestive tract. It is sometimes combined with other procedures to diagnose and treat problems in the digestive tract. A second technique is called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which is used to find and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. Using X-rays and an endoscope, a physician can see inside the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum) to check for abnormalities. If there is a blocked duct, the doctor can insert a tiny tube called a stent to open it up and keep it open, relieving a patient’s symptoms.

Treatment

Your personalized treatment plan may include surgery, radiation therapy, infusion therapy, or other medical treatments. We use minimally invasive surgery whenever possible, using laparoscopy or robotic surgery. These approaches may result in smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a quicker recovery. One of these techniques is the Whipple procedure, a major operation used in the treatment of some pancreatic cancers and a common measure of a hospital’s quality of care. Our doctors are involved on a national level in the assessment of hospital quality based on Whipple surgery performance.

For people with liver cancer, our interventional radiologists collaborate with our surgeons and in some cases are able to convert a patient from inoperable to operable or even a candidate for transplantation by shrinking the diseased part of the liver. Taking advantage of the liver’s ability to regenerate its own tissue, they achieve this by blocking the blood vessel supplying the diseased tissue, which causes that part of the liver to shrink and triggers an increase in healthy tissue growth in another part of the liver. Surgeons can then remove the diseased tissue while leaving behind enough healthy tissue for the patient to have adequate liver function. We also use locoregional therapies that either freeze the liver tumor tissue, known as cryoblation, or use radiofrequency ablation in which heat is used to treat the tumor. We can also access the liver through one of its two blood supplies to inject chemotherapy drugs, special particles that block a tumor’s blood supply, or beads attached to radioactive substances (such as yttrium) directly into a tumor. We perform these procedures using minimally invasive interventional approaches, rather than open surgery. We also offer customized care for people with secondary liver cancer in which colorectal cancer has spread to the liver.

For patients with liver metastases, chemotherapy before surgery to remove the tumors is typically used as part of treatment.

Support services

We offer support services designed to ease your anxiety. A patient navigator can help with appointments and follow-up care while support groups can provide another level of assistance during this difficult time. We also offer integrative medicine, evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, stress management, among others, that can offer relaxation and whole-body care.

Types of liver, pancreatic, and bile duct cancers:

• Hepatocellular (liver) carcinoma
• Pancreatic adenocarcinoma
• Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)

Lung and Thoracic Cancers

Our specialists have the expertise to treat all stages and types of lung and thoracic (chest) cancer, such as thymic cancer, pleural mesothelioma, and mediastinal lymphoma. We use advanced diagnostics, the latest surgical techniques, targeted anticancer drugs, and precision radiation therapy to provide total lung and thoracic cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship. Our early detection and prevention efforts include a lung cancer screening and smoking cessation program.

Screening and diagnostics

As part of our commitment to early detection of lung disease, we offer a lung cancer screening program. Using advanced imaging and cutting-edge technology, we can accurately detect and locate tumors. Studies have proven the value of computed tomography (CT) scanning as a screening tool to find small lung cancers during their earlier, more curable stages. If you are at high risk of lung cancer due to a history of smoking and you’re between the ages of 55 and 70, you may want to be screened. Our in-house pathology team analyzes the tissue samples to determine the precise type and stage of the cancer, many times providing physicians with results within a few hours.

Treatment

Depending on your type and stage of lung or thoracic cancer, different medical approaches may be necessary to remove the tumor. Your treatment plan may include infusion therapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or other medical therapies. We perform your operation with minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, using laparoscopy or robotic surgery. To treat cancers of the lung and chest, we use video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in which a surgeon inserts a tiny camera and instruments  into the chest through several small incisions. This minimally invasive procedure allows surgeons to view the inside of the chest via images transmitted onto a video monitor while performing surgery, adding another level of safety, accuracy, and precision. VATS may also result in a shorter recovery time and less pain.

Support Services

We offer support services that promote whole-body wellness, including a smoking cessation program. Smoking is associated with a higher risk of lung cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the best ways to improve your health and reduces your risk of heart and noncancerous respiratory diseases, as well. This program provides strategies for long-term success. We also offer support groups, a patient navigator who can help with appointments and follow-up care, as well as integrative medicine, offering evidence-based therapies such as acupuncture, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, stress management, and more.

Types of Lung and Thoracic Cancer:

• Mesothelioma
• Mediastinal lymphoma
• Small-cell lung cancer
• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Lung metastases

Urologic Cancer

Our multidisciplinary team of specialists treat cancers of the kidney, prostate, bladder, and testicles. Using advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge surgical techniques, targeted anticancer drugs, and precision radiation therapy, our specialists provide total urologic cancer care from diagnostics to survivorship. Our early detection and prevention efforts include a prostate cancer screening.

Diagnostics

To determine if urologic cancer is present, we rely on a variety of diagnostic tools, which may include computerized tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), a procedure that involves the injection of dye into the blood, as well as position emission tomography (PET) scan and ultrasound examinations. Our in-house pathology team analyzes the tissue samples to determine the precise type and stage of the cancer, allowing physicians and patients to get results quickly. Outpatient procedures to take small samples may be necessary to diagnose abnormal areas as either benign or cancerous. In addition, blood tests or other physical exams may also be used to determine the presence of cancer.

Treatment

Your personalized care plan may include surgery, infusion therapy, radiation therapy, or other medical treatments. For patients who undergo radiation therapy as part of their care plan, we offer advanced treatments that finely target radiation to tumor tissue while sparing as much nearby healthy tissue as possible. Patients with prostate cancer now have access to prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). This new form of radiation therapy significantly reduces the number of treatment visits and may eliminate uncomfortable side effects associated with traditional methods. SBRT relies on beacons the size of rice seeds that are placed in the prostate to define the target area using 3D imaging technology. Using the TrueBeam system, radiation targets only the prostate tumor without harming surrounding healthy tissues. What typically used to take 45 treatments over the course of up to nine weeks can now be done in just five treatments in one to two weeks using SBRT. Previously, patients faced a range of life-altering side effects that included frequent or painful urination and abdominal pain, and impotence.

If surgery is part of your care plan, we perform your operation with minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, using laparoscopy or robotic surgery. Depending on your type and stage of urologic cancer, different surgical approaches may be necessary to remove the cancerous tumor.

For patients with testicular cancer, removal of the testicle may be the only treatment necessary, if the cancer is small and localized to the testicle.

To treat kidney cancer, we use partial nephrectomy whenever possible. This procedures removes only the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue and is the standard of care for treatment of smaller cancers. If the cancer has advanced, a radical nephrectomy to remove the entire affected kidney, local lymph nodes, and the attached adrenal gland, may be needed. We also remove cancerous tumors that have spread from other locations, also known as secondary cancer.

For prostate cancer, a radical prostatectomy to removes the entire prostate gland with the cancer and a rim of normal tissue around it may be required. This type of procedure is most effective if the cancer has not spread outside the prostate. Open, minimally invasive, and robotic-assisted techniques are used for radical prostatectomy. Other treatment options include freezing the cancer cells, called cryosurgery, and transurethral resection (TUR) of the prostate in which the cancer is cut out of the prostate gland through the urethra, using small tools. In late-stage prostate cancer, an orchiectomy may be needed in which the testicles, containing the male hormones prostate cancer cells need to grow, are removed.

TUR is also used to diagnose and manage bladder cancer. This technique allows urologists to remove samples of tissue or cancer in the bladder and use electrical or laser thermal destruction to treat early stage, superficial bladder cancers like non-invasive papillary carcinoma and carcinoma in situ. Other surgical procedures include a radical cystectomy to remove the bladder, tissue and some of the organs as well as a segmental or partial cystectomy in which a portion of the bladder is removed and the ends are sewn back together. If the entire bladder needs to be removed, our surgeons also have the expertise to create artificial bladders.

Support services

To provide whole-body care, we offer a range of supportive services from a patient navigator who can help you with appointments and access to support groups to integrative medicine, offering a variety of evidence-based therapies, including acupuncture, therapeutic massage, nutritional counseling, stress management and more.

Types of urologic cancer:

• Kidney cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Testicular cancer

Cancer Risk Assessment & Genetic Counseling Program

Our program for people at increased risk of cancer due to genetics is led by one of only a handful of trained advanced nurse practitioners, and is a model for the teaching of staff in other genetic programs throughout the nation. Our genetic counselors are board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which is the national certifying agency for all specialties. The certifying process is so rigorous for advanced practice nurses that there are only 56 advanced genetics nurses in the country–Englewood Hospital has three of the five in New Jersey. We’re available to advise individuals and families with a medical history of cancer about their increased risk and options to manage that risk. Genetic testing is available should you wish to receive it.

Risk assessment

Based on guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a cancer risk assessment is recommended for individuals with the following personal and/or family history of cancer: a personal diagnosis of cancer younger than age 50; multiple close family members diagnosed with cancer younger than age 50; more than one cancer diagnosed in the same person; or three or more close family members with different types of cancer.

In addition to these inherited risk factors, certain environmental and lifestyle factors may increase your risk of developing cancer. If, for any reason, you are concerned that you might be at an increased cancer risk, please call to see if you should schedule a risk assessment consultation.

Risk assessment consultation 

Before your risk assessment consultation, you will be asked to complete a detailed questionnaire about your family history and your personal medical history. During your visit, you will review your questionnaire with a nurse practitioner who has specialized training and  certification in cancer genetic counseling (APNG). Based on your answers and our team’s expertise, you will receive recommendations for genetic testing, surveillance, and risk-reduction strategies.

Genetic testing

If your individual risk assessment indicates that genetic testing is appropriate for you, we will provide you with more information about various testing options, including how to interpret results, their limitations, and what your specific insurance will cover. As the field of cancer genetics continues to evolve, multiple genetic tests are available for cancer risk assessment. Based on the current guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, we offer multigene panel testing, which means that multiple genes are tested at the same time. Testing is available for breast, colorectal, endometrial/uterine, gastric (stomach), ovarian, lung, melanoma, and pancreatic cancers, as well as polyposis syndromes.

Personalized recommendations

Whether or not genetic testing is appropriate for you, we will discuss ways you can reduce your risk of cancer and recommendations about routine screening tests. For example, we may recommend more frequent mammograms or enrollment in a smoking cessation or exercise class. The Cancer Risk Assessment and Genetics Program team will assist you in making decisions regarding these recommendations, and you are encouraged to discuss them further with your other healthcare providers.

To make an appointment or for more information about the Cancer Risk Assessment and Genetics Program, call us at 201-608-2608.

Cancer Center Leadership

Steven Brower, MD
Medical Director, Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center

David Dubin, MD
Chief, Radiation Oncology

Mindy Goldfischer, MD
Chief, Breast Imaging

Lyall Gorenstein, MD
Thoracic surgery

Minaxi Jhawer, MD
Chief, Medical Oncology

V. Merle McIntosh, MD
Section Chief, Breast Surgery

Nimesh Nagarsheth, MD
Director, Robotic Surgery
Gynecologic Oncology

Miguel Sanchez, MD
Medical Director, Leslie Simon Breast Care and Cytodiagnosis Center
Chief, Pathology

Mark Shapiro, MD
Chief, Radiology

Rosalyn Stahl, MD
Director, Cancer Risk Assessment and Genetic Program

Kevin Yao, MD
Neurosurgery