Internal Radiation Therapy: Brachytherapy

What is Brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat malignant tumors. There are various methods of brachytherapy, but at our hospital, we use a device called the Remote After-Loading System (RALS). This treatment is primarily used for cervical cancer at our facility. Small pellets, often called “seeds,” approximately 5mm in size, that emit radiation are placed near the tumor for a certain period using various instruments, delivering radiation directly to the tumor. This treatment has the following characteristics:　

1. High Dose Delivery: Since the radiation is delivered from very close to the tumor, it is possible to administer a high dose of radiation to the tumor, effectively killing the tumor cells.
2. Localized Exposure: The radiation does not spread widely, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and reducing side effects.

Treatment Procedure

The treatment procedure is as follows: A specialized tube (applicator) is placed around the tumor. The radioactive source is then inserted into this tube. By moving the source in small increments, controlled by a computer, the appropriate amount of radiation can be delivered to the targeted area. The exact location and dose are determined using CT or MRI images of the affected area, with the aid of specialized computer software. Including preparation, the entire treatment takes 1-2 hours, with the radioactive source remaining inside the body for only 10 to 20 minutes.

The radioactive source is always stored safely in a shielded storage unit. The movement, irradiation, and retrieval of the source are all conducted remotely by computer control.

External Radiation Therapy (TomoTherapy) and Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)

Brachytherapy is typically used in combination with external radiation therapy. Initially, external radiation is used to irradiate a broad area where tumor cells are possible to be present. Subsequently, brachytherapy is employed to deliver concentrated radiation to the specific area where the tumor is located.

At our hospital, we use the highly precise TomoTherapy for external radiation therapy. This advanced treatment allows for accurate and focused radiation delivery to the tumor site, significantly reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues compared to conventional radiation therapy devices.

Radiation Therapy Device: TomoTherapy

Facilities equipped with both TomoTherapy and brachytherapy devices are not many nationwide. At our hospital, we aim to combine these treatment modalities effectively to provide highly effective and minimally invasive treatments with fewer side effects.

We primarily use this treatment method for cervical cancer. The history of brachytherapy for cervical cancer is extensive, and its effectiveness has been well-validated. For cervical cancer, particularly in cases without metastasis, this treatment can offer results comparable to surgery, regardless of the tumor size. (For larger tumors, chemotherapy may be required in conjunction with this treatment.)

Our entire staff works together to ensure that patients receive the best possible care comfortably.

Brachytherapy Room