What is Brachytherapy?

As can be seen in the names, internal radiation as known as brachytherapy is charachterized by delivering the radiation from inside the cancer tissue, while the external radiation means delivering the radiation to the tissue from outside. That’s why brachytherapy directly and only targets the tumor, however the use of external radiation requires a machine outside the body which aims the tumor inside the body from various angles. This method can cause damage on the other healthy tissues. But of course each method have their own benefits and disadvantages.
The main difference between internal radiation brachytherapy and external radiation is how the radiation is delivered. In brachytherapy, radioactive sources are placed inside the body, directly targeting the tumor. External radiation, on the other hand, uses a machine outside the body to deliver radiation to the tumor from various angles. Each method has its advantages and is chosen based on the specific needs of the patient and the type of cancer being treated. While some patients may require one of these methods, others may benefit more from the other.

Brachytherapy is generally considered as a safe and effective method. However brachitherapy can also some side effects. Temporary irritation and swelling at the implant site can be seen in patients. Fatigue and skin changes can also be seen. Rarely, more serious side effects such as damage to surrounding tissues and organs may occur. However, since the brachytherapy is delivering the radiation directly inside of the targeted tissue, these serious brachytherapy side effects are not common.

Preparing for brachytherapy typically involves discussing the procedure with your doctor, tests, imagings and planning of the treatment process. You may also need to go under a specific diet or you may have to use drugs brfore the treatment.

During brachytherapy, you will be positioned carefully to ensure right placement of the radioactive implant. Loca lor general anesthesia can be applied on patients depending on what kind of brachytherapy will be performed. The procedure may take from a few minutes to several hours, depending also on the complexity and duration of the treatment.

Brachytherapy is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient settingThe doctors place the radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor. This may be done using various techniques, such as needles, catheters, or specialized applicators, depending on the location and size of the tumor. Imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans may be used to guide the placement of the sources.

After brachytherapy, you may experience some discomfort or side effects, such as soreness at the implant site, fatigue, or changes in bowel or bladder function. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to manage these side effects and when to follow up for further evaluation. Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the type of brachytherapy performed.

There is no certain time for implant tos tay in the body for all patients. This time can change depending on the individual characteristics of the patient’s tumor, and also the type of brachytherapy used. Temporary implants, such as those used in HDR brachytherapy, are typically removed after each treatment session. In contrast, permanent implants, like those in seed brachytherapy, remain in the body indefinitely.

Recovery time from brachytherapy treatment can vary depending on the type or location of the tumor, your overall health and the type of brachytherapy used. People may experience small side effects. Some people return their daily activities quickly, while it can take more time for some other. It is important to stay in touch with your doctor during this the healing process and manage the process together in case of any complications of brachytherapy.