Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy 

What is brachytherapy?

Brachitherapy is a type of radiation therapy that uses radioactive sources placed inside or near a tumor to deliver radiation directly to the treatment area. Brachytherapy sources may be placed temporarily or permanently. If placed temporarily, the sources are removed after treatment, so there is no risk of radiation exposure to others.

How is brachytherapy performed?

Brachitherapy is performed by a team of experienced radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapy nurses. The radiation oncologist evaluates the patient and determines the appropriate treatment plan. The medical physicist then performs detailed treatment calculations. The radiation therapy nurse provides the patient with information about the treatment and potential side effects, and assists with the procedure.

There are two main types of brachytherapy:

• Intracavitary brachytherapy: This type of brachytherapy uses radioactive sources placed in body cavities near a tumor. It is most commonly used for gynecologic cancers (such as cervical, uterine, and vaginal cancer) and lung cancer.
• Interstitial brachytherapy: This type of brachytherapy uses radioactive sources placed directly into the tumor or surrounding tissue. It is most commonly used for prostate, soft tissue, and breast cancer.

There are two main ways to deliver the radiation dose in brachytherapy:

• High-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy: This type of brachytherapy delivers the radiation dose quickly and over a short period of time. It is the most common type of brachytherapy. The radiation is delivered through catheters placed in the tumor or tumor bed. Treatments are usually given once or twice a week.
• Low-dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy: This type of brachytherapy delivers the radiation dose slowly and over a longer period of time. The patient may need to stay in the hospital during treatment. Treatments can last for several days or weeks.

What are the side effects of brachytherapy?

The side effects of brachytherapy vary depending on the type of cancer being treated and the specific brachytherapy procedure used. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Skin irritation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Urinary frequency
• Bladder irritation
• Pain

Are there any special precautions I need to take after brachytherapy?

The precautions you need to take after brachytherapy depend on the type of brachytherapy you received.

• After HDR brachytherapy, you will be able to go home the same day. You will need to avoid close contact with children and pregnant women for 24 hours. You may also need to avoid swimming or taking a bath for 24 hours.
• After LDR brachytherapy, you may need to stay in the hospital for several days or weeks. You will need to avoid close contact with children and pregnant women for the duration of your stay. You may also need to wear a lead apron or gown to protect others from radiation exposure.

If you are considering brachytherapy, or if you have any questions or concerns about this type of treatment, contact us to get a second opinion.