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Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is a specialized form of internal radiation therapy in which a radioactive source is placed directly inside or very close to the tumor. By delivering radiation from within the body, this technique allows a very high dose to target the cancer precisely while significantly reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This focused approach enhances treatment effectiveness and minimizes side effects.

Brachytherapy is widely used in the management of several cancers, either as a primary treatment or in combination with external beam radiation therapy. It plays an important role in improving tumor control rates while maintaining organ function and quality of life.

Common Cancers Treated with Brachytherapy

  • Cervical cancer
  • Uterine (endometrial) cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Head & neck cancers
  • Selected soft tissue and other localized tumors

Types of Brachytherapy

Depending on the cancer type and stage, brachytherapy may be delivered in different ways:

  • High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy: Delivers a high dose of radiation in short treatment sessions over a few minutes.
  • Low-Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy: Provides continuous low-dose radiation over a longer period.
  • Permanent Seed Implantation: Small radioactive seeds are permanently placed in the tumor area, commonly used in prostate cancer.
  • Temporary Implants: Radioactive sources are placed for a specific duration and then removed.

Benefits of Brachytherapy

  • Highly precise radiation delivery
  • Minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues
  • Shorter overall treatment duration
  • Shorter overall treatment duration
  • Effective tumor control
  • Faster recovery and improved patient comfort

Treatment Process

The procedure is carefully planned using advanced imaging techniques such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound to ensure accurate placement of radioactive sources. The treatment is performed in a controlled environment with strict safety protocols. Depending on the type, patients may receive treatment over a single session or multiple sessions.

Brachytherapy is a safe, well-established, and effective treatment option that provides targeted cancer therapy with excellent precision, helping achieve optimal outcomes while maintaining quality of life.