Introduction:

Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat cancer. It involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor to deliver a high dose of radiation to the affected area while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. In this article, we will discuss the definition, types, procedure, and potential side effects of brachytherapy.

Definition:

Brachytherapy, also known as internal radiation therapy, is a type of radiation therapy that involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor. This allows for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered directly to the cancerous cells while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.

Types:

There are several types of brachytherapy, including:

• Intracavitary brachytherapy: The radioactive sources are placed inside a body cavity, such as the vagina or uterus.
• Interstitial brachytherapy: The radioactive sources are placed directly into the tissue surrounding the tumor.
• Surface brachytherapy: The radioactive sources are placed on the skin, typically used to treat skin cancer.

Procedure:

The procedure for brachytherapy varies depending on the type of cancer being treated and the type of brachytherapy used. In general, the procedure involves the following steps:

• Placement of the radioactive sources: The radioactive sources are placed inside or near the tumor.
• Treatment delivery: The radiation is delivered to the tumor through the radioactive sources.
• Source removal: The radioactive sources are removed once the treatment is complete.

Side Effects:

The side effects of brachytherapy depend on the type of cancer being treated and the type of brachytherapy used. Some common side effects may include:

• Skin irritation or redness (in the case of surface brachytherapy)
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pain or discomfort at the site of treatment
• Hair loss (in the case of surface brachytherapy)

In some cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as damage to nearby organs or tissues.

Conclusion:

Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat cancer by delivering a high dose of radiation directly to the affected area while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. If you are considering brachytherapy as a treatment option for cancer, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you.

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