Melissa Vyfhuis

I am currently a rising PGY-5 radiation oncology resident at UMMC.

I have actively pursued research through out my education and training. As part of a Medical Scientist Training Program, I have earned my Ph.D. in Biochemistry, focusing on the dynamics of S100 proteins in solution using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance as a tool.

During residency, I have expanded my research to include a number of clinical retrospective studies, focusing on stage III NSCLC patients, that have resulted in over 20 presented abstracts and publications. I recently received IRB approval for a dosimetric feasibility study utilizing intensity modulated proton therapy as a means to preserve endocrine function in pre-menopausal women undergoing whole pelvis irradiation for cervical cancer. Preliminary results are promising and we are currently designing a phase I/II study to determine clinical practicality.

The clinical education I received from the faculty at UMD and the Maryland Proton Treatment Center has made me proficient in working as an integral member of a patient-centered, multidisciplinary team. It has also exposed me to various cutting-edge technologies, including 3D-CRT, IGRT, IMRT, VMAT, Linac-based SRS and SBRT, Gamma Knife SRS, Proton Therapy, 4D and motion management strategies, HDR/LDR Brachytherapy, Selective Internal Radioembolization, and Hyperthermia.