Virginia Cancer Specialists
Virginia Cancer Specialists offers patients in Northern Virginia the most advanced cancer treatment capabilities and access to clinical trials in their community. The organization offers a robust team of medical oncologists, hematologists, surgeons, palliative care specialists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, all supported by social workers, dietitians, oncology nurses, and oncology pharmacists.[1]
The facility’s mission is “A New Way of Caring,” and its patient-centered approach is built on accountability, integrity, collaboration, and respect. Its physicians leverage state-of-the-art therapies and technologies using evidence-based medicine.[1]
Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer Care at Virginia Cancer Specialists
The Lung Cancer and Thoracic Oncology Program at Virginia Cancer Specialists uses a multifaceted, multi-disciplinary approach to the care of patients diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other thoracic malignancies. The team is comprised of experts in thoracic surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology who work together to use cutting-edge techniques, minimally invasive procedures, and tailored treatment based on each individual’s condition and goals.[2]
The physician team is strengthened by nurse practitioners, palliative care experts, genetic counselors, and supportive administrative staff, all of whom pool their experience and compassion to deliver the best possible outcome.[1]
Virginia Cancer Specialists also offers the advantage of a partnership with Next Oncology-Virginia, a collaboration that has already led to the development of new drugs and therapeutics. This relationship means that patients are quickly assessed for eligibility in preoperative neoadjuvant trials, adjuvant trials, and radiation trials, as well as Phase 1 and early development clinical trials and molecular testing.[2]
Notable Staff and Mesothelioma Specialists
Virginia Cancer Specialists has assembled a highly respected team of medical professionals who specialize in thoracic malignancies. Among the organization’s physicians treating patients with lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma is Dr. Sandeep J. Khandar, a thoracic surgeon with over twenty years of clinical experience in minimally invasive surgical techniques. The medical oncology staff includes Dr. Christina Brzezniak, who has a special interest in immunotherapy and lung cancer; Dr. Alexander Spira, who directs the Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute and Phase I Trial Program; and Dr. Robert Christie, who participates in numerous hospital-based tumor boards and is a member of the ASCO Thoracic Oncology Guideline Advisory Group. The multidisciplinary team also features Dr. Gregory S. Sibley, a radiation oncologist who is a recognized expert in state-of-the-art treatment planning techniques, especially intensity-modulated radiotherapy for lung cancers.[3]
