What is radiotherapy and when is it used?
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to treat tumors precisely while sparing surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible. It is one of the three pillars of cancer treatment, alongside surgery and drug-based therapies. It may be used as a primary treatment, after surgery to lower the risk of the tumor returning, together with chemotherapy, or to control symptoms such as pain. Whether radiotherapy is right for you always depends on the cancer type, its location, the stage and your overall situation — no two treatments are alike, which is why everything starts with a personal assessment.
An experienced radiation oncologist in Barranquilla
Dr. William Baquero earned his medical degree at Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla, completed his specialization in radiation oncology at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and pursued advanced training at Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Chile. He has dedicated more than 12 years exclusively to treating cancer with radiotherapy and was named Person of the Year 2019 by HOY Diario del Magdalena. He consults in English and Spanish, which makes him a natural choice for expats, international patients and visitors on Colombia's Caribbean coast. His approach is personal: the same physician who assesses you plans your treatment, follows your progress and answers your questions and your family's.
Cancers commonly treated with radiotherapy
Dr. Baquero treats a wide range of tumors with radiotherapy, including:
- Breast cancer, after breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy.
- Prostate cancer, as a primary or complementary treatment.
- Head and neck tumors (larynx, oral cavity, pharynx, among others).
- Skin cancer, including lesions on the face and delicate areas.
- Keloids and problematic scars, with postoperative radiotherapy.
- Gynecologic, digestive, lung and other tumors, depending on each case.
If your diagnosis is not on this list, it is still worth asking — the assessment determines whether radiotherapy has a role in your treatment.
Available techniques
- IMRT (intensity-modulated radiotherapy): shapes the dose to concentrate it on the tumor while better protecting nearby organs.
- 3D conformal radiotherapy: CT-based three-dimensional planning that fits the treatment fields to the shape of the tumor.
- High-dose-rate brachytherapy: internal radiation placed very close to or inside the tumor, in selected cases.
- Electron therapy: useful for superficial lesions such as some skin cancers and keloids.
The right technique depends on your case and is defined during your assessment and treatment planning.
How the process works, step by step
The path from first contact to treatment is simpler than many patients expect:
- Direct contact: write via WhatsApp or call to schedule your appointment — no intermediaries needed.
- Assessment: Dr. Baquero reviews your history and studies (biopsy, PET-CT, CT, MRI) and explains whether radiotherapy is indicated and with what goal.
- Planning: a simulation CT scan is performed, followed by a personalized dose calculation for your treatment.
- Sessions: daily, Monday to Friday, on an outpatient basis, lasting only a few minutes — you continue your normal life at home or at your accommodation.
- Follow-up: during and after treatment, with check-ups to review your progress and manage any side effects.
Care in Barranquilla for the entire Caribbean region
Dr. Baquero practices at several clinics in the city and sees patients from Barranquilla, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Valledupar and across Colombia's Caribbean coast, as well as international patients. He accepts private-pay (out-of-pocket) patients and works with most health insurance plans; coverage is confirmed when you schedule, and if your insurer requires a referral, he will guide you through it. The exact treatment location is coordinated directly with you according to your case and convenience.
Second opinions and virtual consultations
If you already have a diagnosis or a radiotherapy plan recommended by another physician, you can request a second opinion — an independent review helps you make decisions with greater peace of mind. Virtual consultations are also available, ideal for an initial orientation, for patients living outside Barranquilla or abroad, or for reviewing your studies before traveling. Having your biopsy, imaging and medical summaries on hand makes the consultation more productive.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get an appointment with Dr. Baquero?
Contact him directly via WhatsApp or phone. He personally coordinates the assessment and tells you where you will be seen according to your case.
Do I need a referral to book?
You can consult directly, without a referral. If your insurer requires one to cover treatment, he will guide you through obtaining it.
Do you accept private-pay patients and insurance?
Yes. Dr. Baquero sees private-pay patients and works with most health insurance plans. Coverage is confirmed when you schedule your appointment.
How soon can I be seen?
Coordinate directly via WhatsApp or phone. When radiotherapy has been indicated, every effort is made to schedule the assessment as soon as possible.
Can a family member attend the consultation?
Yes, and it is encouraged. A family member helps remember the information, ask questions and share in treatment decisions.
Does radiotherapy hurt?
The session itself is painless, similar to having an X-ray. Some side effects may appear during treatment and are managed together with your doctor.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the tumor type and location and the schedule indicated for your case. The exact number is defined during planning, after your assessment and studies.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes. A virtual consultation works well for an initial orientation, a second opinion, or reviewing your studies before traveling to Barranquilla.
Ready for an assessment?
Dr. Baquero will personally review your case. Care in Barranquilla · Santa Marta.
The information on this page is educational and does not replace an individual medical assessment.