Shortage of Contrast for Imaging Services

Because of a global shortage of iodinated contrast material (Omnipaque) caused by temporary overseas manufacturing disruptions, ChristianaCare is taking steps to preserve supply so that it remains available for the most time-sensitive and urgent patient needs. (Learn more in our frequently asked questions.)

Omnipaque contrast is the most widely used contrast material for CT scans and radiographic examinations at ChristianaCare facilities. It is also used for cardiac imaging and interventions, and in the GI lab, Surgicenter and other settings.

The shortage is expected to last several weeks, and likely into the summer months.

Hospitals and health care organizations worldwide are managing the effects of the shortage and the impact to patient care.

ChristianaCare is making every effort to meet the needs of patients who need this product in their procedures. We are working individually with physicians to prioritize those patients with the most urgent needs.

Wherever possible, we are using alternative contrast material and limiting its use to ensure adequate supplies for time sensitive and emergent exams. It is possible that some elective procedures that use this product will need to be delayed.

ChristianaCare will continue to look for options to minimize disruptions created by the shortage, as we serve our community as expert, caring partners in health.

Learn more in our frequently asked questions (FAQs).

COVID-19: New Visitation Guidelines. Click here for what to expect at ChristianaCare during COVID-19.

Coming for Care | Vaccines & Boosters | Testing | Health & Safety | Visitor Policies

ChristianaCare

Shortage of Contrast for Imaging Services

Because of a global shortage of iodinated contrast material (Omnipaque) caused by temporary overseas manufacturing disruptions, ChristianaCare is taking steps to preserve supply so that it remains available for the most time-sensitive and urgent patient needs. (Learn more in our frequently asked questions.)

Omnipaque contrast is the most widely used contrast material for CT scans and radiographic examinations at ChristianaCare facilities. It is also used for cardiac imaging and interventions, and in the GI lab, Surgicenter and other settings.

The shortage is expected to last several weeks, and likely into the summer months.

Hospitals and health care organizations worldwide are managing the effects of the shortage and the impact to patient care.

ChristianaCare is making every effort to meet the needs of patients who need this product in their procedures. We are working individually with physicians to prioritize those patients with the most urgent needs.

Wherever possible, we are using alternative contrast material and limiting its use to ensure adequate supplies for time sensitive and emergent exams. It is possible that some elective procedures that use this product will need to be delayed.

ChristianaCare will continue to look for options to minimize disruptions created by the shortage, as we serve our community as expert, caring partners in health.

Learn more in our frequently asked questions (FAQs).

COVID-19: New Visitation Guidelines. Click here for what to expect at ChristianaCare during COVID-19.

Coming for Care | Vaccines & Boosters | Testing | Health & Safety | Visitor Policies

Helen F. Graham Cancer Center
& Research Institute

Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncology, also called radiation therapy, uses radiation to kill cancer cells. Used by itself or with cancer-fighting medicines or surgery, radiation is one of the most effective cancer treatments. Radiation can help shrink a tumor to be removed more easily in surgery or help destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. In some cases, radiation without surgery may be the most appropriate treatment for certain types of cancer.

The goal of radiation treatment is to target specific tumors with the exact amount of radiation required while minimizing exposure to surrounding normal, healthy tissue.

Most patients who receive radiation therapy at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute will receive external-beam radiation treatments from one of our linear accelerators. These highly accurate machines beam radiation into the tumor from outside your body. You will not feel the radiation pass through your skin.

The actual treatment takes only two to three minutes. Using the latest treatment and planning technologies, we can target your cancer with pinpoint accuracy and reduce the length of time you need to spend receiving treatments.

Your doctor will prescribe a detailed, individualized treatment plan specific to your needs. Your course of therapy will be based on precise measurements gathered from a physical examination and diagnostic imaging, such as computer tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The Helen F. Graham Cancer Center has also piloted the technology of image-guided radiation therapy, which allows your doctor to track the location and movement of the tumor while you are on the treatment table.

APEX

Radiation Oncology
Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute
4701 Ogletown-Stanton Road
Newark, DE 19713 directions
302-623-4800		 Concord Health Center
161 Wilmington-West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317 directions
610-361-1170		 ChristianaCare Radiation Oncology at Union Hospital
152 Railroad Avenue
Elkton, MD 21921 directions
443-907-1650