Overview

Brachytherapy is a type of internal radiation therapy that treats some types of cancer by putting radioactive material right inside or close to the tumour. Brachytherapy differs from external beam radiation because it delivers radiation from within the body to the cancer while keeping healthy tissues around it as safe as possible. The radioactive source can be put in place for a short time or for a long time, depending on the type of cancer and the treatment plan. People often use brachytherapy to treat prostate, cervical, breast, and head and neck cancers. For the best results, it is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or external radiation.

Why It's Done
Brachytherapy sends concentrated radiation directly to the tumour site, which helps control cancer and lowers the risk of side effects. It is especially helpful for cancers that are confined to a single site and require very careful targeting. The procedure helps tumours get smaller, keeps them from coming back, and in some cases, cures them. It can also help with symptoms in people with advanced cancer.

What to Expect?
Before brachytherapy, patients undergo imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound to help plan where the radioactive source will be placed. Local, regional, or general anaesthesia may be used during the procedure. In temporary brachytherapy, radioactive material is placed in the tumour area using applicators or catheters, then removed after a set period of time. In permanent brachytherapy, small radioactive seeds are placed and left in place. Over time, they lose their activity. The procedure's length depends on the method used. After treatment, patients are monitored for pain or side effects, such as swelling in one area or fatigue. In some cases, temporary safety measures may be recommended to prevent others from being exposed to radiation.

Recovery & Outlook
Most of the time, recovery is quick, especially with minimally invasive methods. Most side effects are mild and go away on their own. When used on the right types of cancer, brachytherapy can effectively control tumours with fewer long-term side effects.