Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy used to treat various types of cancer.

Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy that involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or very close to the tumor. This targeted approach allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered to the cancerous tissue while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

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Here are some key aspects:

1. Direct Delivery: Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or very close to the tumor. This allows for a high dose of radiation to target the cancer cells while sparing nearby healthy tissue.
2. Types:
   • Low-Dose Rate (LDR): Radioactive seeds are implanted permanently in the tumor. The radiation is delivered slowly over time.
   • High-Dose Rate (HDR): A temporary source of radiation is placed in or near the tumor for a short period, often just a few minutes at a time.
3. Common Uses: Brachytherapy is frequently used for prostate cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, and some head and neck cancers.
4. Advantages: It can be more effective at delivering localized treatment, often resulting in fewer side effects compared to external beam radiation therapy.
5. Procedure: The procedure usually involves imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement of the radioactive material. It can be done on an outpatient basis, depending on the type.