Cancer Treatment in New Jersey
The oncologists at Mountainside Medical Center provide compassionate cancer care to our patients in the Montclair community and beyond. Our cancer center pairs emotional support with leading-edge technology to bring you a wide range of cancer treatments and services. Our cancer treatments include radiation therapy and infusion services, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Our oncologists also offer access to promising clinical trials for cancer patients, support groups, and community outreach programs. No matter where you are in your cancer journey, our dedicated oncologists are here to help.
Our Cancer Treatments and Services
From the moment you receive your cancer diagnosis, our physicians will be by your side, committed to your complete care. Treatment is just one aspect of our commitment to your wellbeing. From day one, we will work with you to create and implement a personalized cancer recovery plan. Your recovery plan may include any of the following treatments and services:
- Access to clinical trials for cancer — Our medical center offers leading-edge treatments and clinical trials for eligible patients.
- Diagnostic imaging services — Diagnosis is the first step to treating and beating cancer. Our skilled physicians and radiologists use state-of-the-art equipment to investigate and understand your condition.
- Infusion therapy — Our cancer care team includes nurses with special certification to administer chemotherapy, biotherapy, immunotherapy and non-chemo related treatments.
- Palliative support — Our advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) provide an additional layer of support to you and your cancer care team by offering treatments to manage your pain and symptoms.
- Radiation oncology — Our radiation team delivers the highest levels of accuracy and safety, from treatment planning to delivery. Radiation oncology is easily accessed with its own parking area and separate entrance.
- Rehabilitative care — Our rehabilitation therapy department is an integral part of our cancer care team. Physical therapists can help you recover from the physical impacts of cancer, any surgery you may have, and treat unwanted side effects.
As your treatments wind down, you will meet with your doctor to establish a long-term plan to monitor your recovery, manage any remaining side effects and periodically make sure your cancer has not returned. This plan will likely include a schedule of physician visits and tests.
Oncology Support and Services
In addition to our wide range of cancer treatments, we also provide an abundance of resources to help you feel supported and stay informed. This includes:
- Community outreach programs
- Counseling and psychosocial services
- Genetic counseling
- Nutrition services
- Pastoral support
We also have social workers available to help families coordinate transportation and deal with any financial or practical concerns that may have arisen due to your illness.
Our Cancer Care Team
We employ a number of skilled specialists with experience diagnosing and treating cancer. Our multispecialty, coordinated approach guarantees that each patient who enters our oncology department will receive compassionate, quality care and support. Our cancer program is Commission on Cancer-accredited by the American College of Surgeons. This means we have demonstrated to our community that we have invested in systems that help cancer patients receive high-quality, coordinated care.
Our team includes:
- Board-certified medical, surgical and radiation oncologists
- Certified oncology professional registered nurses
- Dieticians and nutrition experts
- Nurse navigators
- Palliative care advanced practice nurses
- Pharmacists with certifications in oncology and pharmacotherapy
- Registered and certified radiology technicians and laboratory specialists
- Rehabilitative medicine specialists
- Social workers with experience working with cancer patients
When you visit the oncology clinic at Mountainside Medical Center, you can count on quality care close to home, state-of-the-art services and technology, compassionate support, and expert care.
Gynecological Oncology
At Mountainside Medical Center, Merieme Klobocista, M.D., Director of Gynecological Oncology Services, leads the care of gynecological cancer patients, providing exceptional specialist care to the residents of New Jersey and beyond. She plays a significant role in coordinating individualized, multidisciplinary treatment options that include minimally invasive (robotic) surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Treatment approaches and technologies are constantly evolving, providing patients with a growing array of medications, therapies, and tools to diagnose and attack the disease. That is why it is essential to turn to skilled doctors and clinicians devoted to gynecological malignancies — from diagnosis and treatment to side effect management and survivorship.
Our gynecological oncologists offer treatment for:
Cervical Cancer
Unlike other types of gynecological cancer, cervical cancer can be detected early through screening tests. Regular screening with a Pap test and HPV testing can identify abnormal cells in the cervix, allowing for treatment before cancer develops. An HPV vaccination is also available and has been shown to reduce the risk of precancerous conditions and cervical cancer. In its early stages, cervical cancer usually does not cause any symptoms. However, in later stages, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal discharge and bleeding or pain during sex.
Ovarian Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer accounts for about 3% of cancers in women and causes more deaths than any other gynecological cancer. Although survival rates are high with early diagnosis, only 20% of cases are detected early. This is because there is no screening test for ovarian cancer, and symptoms like abdominal bloating, pain, or pressure are nonspecific and easily overlooked. Women experiencing these symptoms or those at higher risk (such as those with a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer) may be recommended for further screenings, including a rectovaginal pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound, or a CA-125 blood test.
Uterine/Endometrial Cancer:
Uterine cancer is the most commonly diagnosed gynecological cancer in the United States, and one of the most common cancers in women in the U.S. Uterine cancer develops in the uterus, and it is most commonly diagnosed in post-menopausal women. Risk factors include age, obesity, taking estrogen as a hormone replacement and having a family history of ovarian, uterine or colon cancer. If you are experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding, and/or pain and pressure in the pelvic area, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider. If discovered early, surgical removal of the uterus often cures this cancer.
Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers:
Vaginal and vulvar cancers are rare types of gynecological cancers that primarily affect women over the age of 60. Vaginal cancer often presents with symptoms like unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, while vulvar cancer may cause itching, pain, or changes in the appearance of the vulvar skin. Risk factors include having a history of HPV and history of cervical cancer or pre-cancer. Vaginal and vulvar cancers can be treated effectively if detected early, which is why regular gynecological exams are vital to your continued good health.
For clinical questions or to schedule an appointment with our gynecological oncologists, call 973-259-3548.
Lymphedema Management Program
Lymphedema is a swelling in the arms or legs that is sometimes a side effect of breast cancer treatment, though blockage in the lymphatic system is related to other conditions as well. We offer a special manual lymphatic drainage(MLD) therapy for our patients with this often painful condition. Our Lymphedema Management Program helps patients recovering from injury, surgical trauma, chronic conditions, inflammation and edema.
A therapist certified in manual lymphatic drainage applies rhythmic massage techniques using repetitive, precise hand movements applied lightly in the direction of lymph flow. MLD accelerates and improves functioning of the patient’s lymphatic system.
Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program
At our Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center, doctors who are experts in different specialties work collaboratively to review your case, share their insights and ensure that you’re offered the most viable treatment options.
Our team includes board-certified specialists in dermatology, general surgery, medical oncology, pathology and plastic surgery and a tumor board comprised of board-certified medical, radiation and surgical oncologists. Together, we work to provide individualized care plans that involve the most current, widely-accepted diagnostic and treatment alternatives.
The Melanoma and Skin Cancer program is a component of the Mountainside Cancer Center, accredited with commendation by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer and equipped to provide an array of support services that extend far beyond diagnosis and treatment.
The very best skin cancer care is right here in New Jersey. We’re here to be your resource for expert skin cancer and provide unsurpassed quality, safety, and comfort.
Thoracic Oncology
Patients with advanced tumors that are often deemed untreatable or inoperable elsewhere can find hope at Mountainside Medical Center. Our thoracic oncology specialists offer access to the most advanced instrumentation and innovative approaches for the treatment of tumors in the chest. Although surgical removal usually offers the best opportunity for cure, medication and a combination of other treatment modalities can sometimes suffice. Our extensive expertise with thoracic cancers make us uniquely qualified to manage less common conditions, such as carcinoid and interstitial lung disease. Our thoracic surgeons and oncologists are here to help you achieve your best possible outcome.
Stay Up to Date on Your Cancer Screenings
Protect yourself from cancer by reducing your risk. Avoid using tobacco, maintain a healthy weight with a balanced diet and exercise and use sunscreen. Finding cancer in the early and most treatable stages is another important step.