Gynecological Brachytherapy
Gynecological brachytherapy is a specialized form of radiation therapy used to treat gynecological cancers, including cervical, endometrial (uterine), and vaginal cancers. It involves the precise delivery of radiation to the tumor site by placing a radioactive source directly inside or near the affected area.
Common Types:
- Intracavitary Brachytherapy: Involves placing a radioactive source inside the body cavity, such as the vaginal or uterine cavity. It's commonly used for endometrial and cervical cancers.
- Interstitial Brachytherapy: Utilizes radioactive sources inserted directly into the surrounding tissues of the tumor, often guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans. This is typically used for advanced cervical cancer.
Purpose:
- Gynecological brachytherapy is employed to treat gynecological cancers, either as a primary treatment or as an adjuvant therapy following surgery or external beam radiation.
Dose and Schedule:
- The dose and treatment schedule vary based on cancer type and stage. Patients may undergo one or multiple sessions over several days or weeks.
Effectiveness:
- Gynecological brachytherapy is an effective treatment option for gynecological cancers. It's often used in combination with surgery and external beam radiation therapy to maximize treatment efficacy.
