Brachytherapy

What is brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy where a radio-active source is placed within or near the tumor. It is also known as "internal radiation" At DMO, we use brachytherapy to treat gynaecological cancers, prostate carncer as well as esophageal cancer.

 

How does it work?
Prior to treatment, the radiation oncologist will explain how the brachytherapy treatment will be delivered, depending on the patient's specific needs. In some cases, patients will need sedation prior to the procedure. This can either be done at the brachytherapy suit or in theatre.

 

During the treatment session, radioactive material is placed inside the body. This can be done in one of the following ways:

 

• Using intra-cavity brachytherapy:
  During this treatment, a device that contains radioactive material, such as a tube or cylinder, is placed inside a body cavity. Intra-cavity brachytherapy is typically used to treat gynaecological cancers such as cervical cancer.

 

• Using interstitial brachytherapy:
  A device containing radioactive material is placed into the body tissue, such as the prostate. The radioactive material may be contained in tiny seeds or wires, which are inserted into the tissue with the use of special applicators.

 

Brachytherapy can be delivered in either a high or low dose, depending on your specific needs. During high-dose brachytherapy, the radioactive material is placed in the body for a short period only. You will be positioned on the treatment table and the radiation device will be inserted into your body. The procedure will take around twenty minutes, after which you will be able to go home.

 

During low-dose brachytherapy, a low dose of radiation is released into the body over a longer period of time. Radioactive material is inserted into the body, sometimes by means of a surgical procedure.