Brachytherapy is the term used to describe any type of radioactive implant. The term brachytherapy is derived from the Greek word "brachy" which mean short. This term describes the "short" or local distribution of radiation delivered by the typical implant. Implant treatments can be used for a variety of tumors. Cancers of the head and neck region, breast, lung, esophagus, soft tissue (sarcomas), gynecologic (female) and prostate can be treated using brachytherapy.
There are many different types of implants that are used today. An intracavitary implant uses the body’s natural passageways to allow for insertion of radioactive sources. Interstitial implants are implants where needles are inserted into a tumor or body site to deliver the radiation sources directly into a tumor. Permanent implants are when sources, generally a number of radioactive seeds, are placed in the body. The radioactive sources decay but the seeds remain in the body. Temporary implants are usually performed with a machine called a high-dose-rate afterloader or HDR. The applicator and radiation sources are removed from the body after the treatment is delivered.
Devices called high-dose-rate remote afterloading machines allow patients to complete brachytherapy treatments quickly, in about 10 to 20 minutes. Powerful radioactive sources travel through small tubes called catheters to the tumor for the amount of time necessary to deliver the prescribed dose. You may be able to go home shortly after the procedure. Depending on the area treated, you may receive several treatments over a number of days or weeks.
A number of implants that we routinely perform are listed in this section, but brachytherapy has many applications and we will be happy to discuss this potential treatment with you. Dr. Cline is a member of the American Brachytherapy Society and has extensive experience using these treatment techniques.