Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy where sealed radioactive sources are placed directly inside or next to a tumour, delivering a highly concentrated dose over a very short distance while sparing surrounding tissue. It is frequently used for cervical, prostate, and breast cancers, either as a standalone treatment or as a boost following external beam radiotherapy. Because the radiation source is so close to the tumour, treatment sessions are shorter than conventional external radiotherapy. Two main approaches exist: temporary high-dose-rate implants and permanent low-dose-rate seed implants.

Brachytherapy is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Radiation Oncology specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.

The typical duration is 1-2 weeks (multiple sessions). This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.

Recovery typically takes Patients typically go home the same day or after a short hospital stay for applicator-based procedures, with mild discomfort managed by pain medication. Multiple sessions are usually scheduled over one to two weeks for high-dose-rate treatment. Follow-up imaging and pelvic or clinical exams monitor treatment response over subsequent months.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.

Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.

Brachytherapy has a documented success rate of 85-95% for early-stage cancers at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.