Cancer treatment
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy places radioactive material inside or next to a tumour to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the cancer.
Quick answer
Brachytherapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiotherapy where a radioactive source is placed within or close to the tumour, delivering a focused dose of radiation while sparing more of the surrounding healthy tissue.
- Why it is done: It is used for cancers such as prostate, cervical, womb and some skin and breast cancers, either alone or with external radiotherapy, to treat the tumour precisely.
- What happens: Under anaesthetic or sedation, applicators or tiny radioactive seeds are placed into or beside the tumour, guided by imaging.
What it is
Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiotherapy where a radioactive source is placed within or close to the tumour, delivering a focused dose of radiation while sparing more of the surrounding healthy tissue.
Why it is done
It is used for cancers such as prostate, cervical, womb and some skin and breast cancers, either alone or with external radiotherapy, to treat the tumour precisely.
What happens
Under anaesthetic or sedation, applicators or tiny radioactive seeds are placed into or beside the tumour, guided by imaging. The radiation may be given over minutes (high dose rate) or by permanent seeds.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the type and site. Temporary applicators are removed after treatment; permanent seeds stay in place and gradually become inactive. Side effects relate to the area treated.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Side effects depend on the location and can include local soreness, and effects on nearby organs such as the bladder or bowel. Safety precautions are advised for a time with permanent seed implants.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Brachytherapy: frequently asked questions
Is brachytherapy the same as normal radiotherapy?
Both use radiation, but brachytherapy places the source inside or next to the tumour, delivering a focused dose, whereas standard (external beam) radiotherapy aims radiation from a machine outside the body.
Am I radioactive after brachytherapy?
With permanent seed implants you may be advised to take some precautions around others, especially children and pregnant women, for a period. With temporary treatments you are not radioactive once the source is removed.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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