Brachytherapy is radiotherapy given from inside the body or very close to the tumour. A small radiation source is placed into an applicator, tube, seed, or cavity near the area that needs treatment.
It is used for selected cancers where internal treatment gives a more focused dose. Your team will explain whether the source is temporary or permanent.
Common Indications for Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy may be used for:
- Cervical cancer.
- Prostate cancer.
- Some womb or vaginal cancers.
- Some breast cancer treatment plans.
- Some head and neck cancers.
- Symptom control, such as bleeding from a tumour.
What exactly does brachytherapy treat?
It treats the tissue close to the radiation source. Because the source is near the target, the dose can be strong around the tumour and lower further away.
How should I prepare?
Preparation depends on the body part. You may need blood tests, imaging, fasting, bowel preparation, or admission. Ask whether you will need anaesthesia or someone to come with you.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
Do not stop medicines on your own. Tell your team if you take blood thinners, diabetes medicines, or herbal supplements, because some may need special timing.
What happens when I arrive?
The team checks your details, confirms consent, and prepares you for the procedure. You may have an IV line, pain medicine, sedation, spinal anaesthesia, or general anaesthesia depending on the treatment.
How is brachytherapy performed?
The doctor places the applicator or source holder into the correct position. Imaging may be used to check placement. The radioactive source is then delivered for the planned time and removed if it is a temporary treatment.
How long does brachytherapy take?
The treatment time can range from minutes to hours. The full appointment may take longer because of preparation, imaging, recovery, and observation.
Is there any discomfort?
You should not feel the radiation itself. You may feel pressure, cramps, soreness, or discomfort from the applicator or positioning. Pain control is planned around this.
Are there risks?
Risks depend on the treatment area. They can include bleeding, infection, soreness, urinary or bowel irritation, and later tissue changes. Your team should explain the risks for your own cancer and treatment site.
Will I be radioactive afterwards?
For temporary brachytherapy, usually no after the source is removed. If permanent seeds are used, you may receive safety instructions for a period of time.
Can I have brachytherapy if I am pregnant?
Pregnancy Precaution
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you might be. Brachytherapy uses radiation close to the body, so pregnancy must be discussed before treatment.
When should I contact the team urgently?
Follow your centre's discharge instructions. Contact the team for fever, heavy bleeding, severe or increasing pain, difficulty passing urine, repeated vomiting, or a displaced applicator. If you are sent home with a temporary source or applicator, use the emergency contact instructions immediately if anything seems out of place.
Sources and further reading
- National Cancer Institute: Brachytherapy to Treat Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: Radiation Therapy Side Effects
Conclusion
Brachytherapy can sound intense because it is internal, but it is planned step by step. Ask your team what type you are having, whether the source will be removed, and what restrictions apply when you leave.