Richard Pezner, M.D., specializes in using radiation to treat breast, soft tissue, lung, and brain cancers. He also is a member of the City of Hope Neuro-Oncology multidisciplinary team and specializes in radiation therapy called stereotactic radiosurgery. Through this procedure, radiation oncologists are able to deliver large doses of radiation to small tumors in the head while sparing the surrounding brain and other normal tissues.

Currently, Dr. Pezner is studying intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), an exciting new therapy in which oncologists vary the intensity of the radiation doses based on precise, computer-generated maps of tumors. By modulating the intensity of the radiation, oncologists can deliver more tightly focused beams of radiation that conform with the shape of the tumor, increasing the effectiveness of the therapy while reducing harmful side effects. Dr. Pezner is studying the effectiveness of the new treatment for brain tumors and sarcomas.

In addition to his work as an oncologist, Dr. Pezner is also a highly respected educator and is Program Director of the Radiation Oncology Residency Program. Through continuing medical education, seminars, and staff training programs, he has served as an expert instructor in radiation oncology. Dr. Pezner has authored over 45 publications in peer-reviewed journals and delivered dozens of abstracts and presentations.

Dr. Pezner has been a radiation oncologist at City of Hope since 1979. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University in 1975. Prior to joining City of Hope, he performed his internship and residency at the University of Oregon Health Sciences Center in Portland, Oregon.