Brachytherapy: Advancing Cancer Treatment with Precision and Care
Brachytherapy, a form of internal radiation therapy, has emerged as one of the most targeted and effective methods in the fight against cancer. Unlike external radiation therapy that delivers radiation from outside the body, brachytherapy involves placing radioactive material directly inside or near the tumor. This innovative approach allows doctors to deliver a high dose of radiation to the affected area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. As a result, patients often experience fewer side effects and shorter treatment times compared to conventional radiation methods.
The technique is widely used to treat several types of cancer, including prostate, cervical, breast, and head and neck cancers. In prostate cancer, for example, tiny radioactive seeds are implanted into the gland, releasing radiation over a specific period to destroy cancer cells. This targeted precision not only improves treatment outcomes but also helps preserve important functions such as urinary and sexual health. Similarly, in cervical and uterine cancers, brachytherapy plays a critical role in achieving high local control rates and reducing recurrence risks.
One of the most notable advantages of brachytherapy is its ability to be customized to each patient’s condition. The treatment plan is carefully designed based on tumor size, shape, and location, ensuring optimal radiation delivery. There are two main types of brachytherapy: high-dose-rate (HDR) and low-dose-rate (LDR). HDR brachytherapy delivers intense radiation over short sessions, often completed in a few days, while LDR uses continuous radiation over several days or weeks. The choice depends on the type of cancer and the patient’s overall health.