What is Brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is a internal radiation therapy used in cancer treatment. It is also known as "internal radiotherapy." In this method, the radiation source is placed directly inside or near the tumor. Thus, the cancerous tissue receives a high dose of radiation while the surrounding healthy tissues are preserved.
Brachytherapy in Gynecological Cancers
Brachytherapy plays a very important role in the treatment of certain cancers related to female genital organs:
Cervical (cervix) cancer
Uterine (endometrial) cancer
Vaginal and vulvar cancers
This method is often used in conjunction with surgery or external radiotherapy.
What are the Advantages of Brachytherapy?
Targeted radiation: Since radiation is delivered directly to the tumor, it is more effective.
Fewer side effects: Surrounding healthy tissues are largely preserved.
Short treatment duration: Sessions are usually completed within a few days.
Post-surgical support: It can be applied to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence after surgery.
Chance of fertility preservation: In suitable patients, it can contribute to treatment without completely removing the uterus.
How is Brachytherapy Applied?
The patient is prepared under general or regional anesthesia.
Special applicator devices (such as vaginal cylinders, tandem applicators) are placed.
The radiation source is delivered to the tumor through these applicators.
At the end of the session, the source is removed, and the patient can return to daily life.
Post-Brachytherapy Process
Treatment is generally well tolerated.
Light vaginal discharge, fatigue, or urinary complaints may occur.
In the long term, the effectiveness of the treatment is monitored with regular check-ups.
Remember: Brachytherapy is an effective and safe method that increases the success rate in the treatment of cervical cancer. Whether it is suitable for each patient is determined after detailed examination and evaluation.
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