Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation Therapy)

Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy where radioactive material is placed directly inside or near a tumor. It delivers a high dose of radiation to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. It is commonly used for prostate, cervical, uterine, breast, and skin cancers.

• Pre-treatment imaging and planning scans (CT, MRI, or ultrasound) are performed.
• Discuss current medications and medical history with your oncology team.
• Fasting or other preparation may be required depending on the procedure site.

Small radioactive sources are placed inside the body, either temporarily (removed after a few minutes to days) or permanently (tiny seeds left in place). The procedure may require anesthesia or sedation, depending on the cancer location. Treatment length varies from a single session to several days.

• Temporary pain, swelling, or irritation near the treatment site.
• Urinary, bowel, or sexual side effects depending on the treated organ.
• Rare long-term complications such as scarring or tissue damage.

Your oncology team monitors tumor response through imaging and exams. Brachytherapy is often combined with surgery, external radiation, or chemotherapy. Follow-up continues for months to years to track treatment effectiveness and side effects.