Mesothelioma TreatmentOther Therapies
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy, alternately known as internal radiation therapy, is often used in the treatment of mesothelioma as well as other types of cancer. Unlike more traditional radiation therapy, which uses high-energy x-ray beams aimed at the tumor, this type of therapy involves placing a radioactive material directly inside the body near the tumor.
Many doctors believe that brachytherapy presents many advantages in the treatment of mesothelioma patients and its often a treatment of choice. Internal radiation allows doctors to treat a small area with a higher dosage of radiation in a shorter amount of time, a distinct advantage with an aggressive cancer like mesothelioma.
Types of Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy may be temporary or permanent:
- Temporary - For temporary brachytherapy, the radioactive material is placed near the tumor for a pre-determined length of time and then removed. Your oncologist, in accordance with his/her goals, will determine whether it is to be administered in high-dose or low-dose.
- Permanent - Permanent brachytherapy, also known as seed implantation involves the placing of tiny radioactive pellets or seeds in or near a tumor and leaving them there permanently. The pellets are miniscule, usually about the size of a grain of rice. After several weeks, the radioactivity diminishes and the now harmless seeds remain in the body. There is no danger associated with the remaining pellets.
How is Brachytherapy Accomplished?
Doctors will insert the radioactive material through a needle, catheter, or applicator and may accomplish the task manually or with the help of a computer-controlled device, which will help ensure that the material is placed correctly. X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound machines may also be used for accurate administration of brachytherapy.
Will I Be Hospitalized?
Brachytherapy is performed in a hospital setting but patients are often able to go home on the same day or after an overnight stay. Much will depend on the type of brachytherapy administered.
Though the procedure is fairly quick, you may require a general anesthetic to reduce discomfort. Youll probably experience swelling or tenderness for a few days in the area where the catheter or applicator was inserted. Because of the presence of radiation, exposure to others may be limited and patients should not come in contact with pregnant women so as to avoid risk to the developing fetus.
