Brachytherapy is a specialized form of radiotherapy that delivers radiation directly to the tumor. This effective treatment treatment method offers numerous benefits, including fewer side effects and reduced toxicity, making it a viable option for various cancer types, particularly gynecological cancers. Dr. Jumara Martins is a radiation oncologist at SERO, SP, Brazil. She gives insights on brachytherapy, its applications, and its advantages in cancer treatment.

What is Brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a type of radiotherapy characterized by the close placement of the radiation source to the tumor. Unlike teletherapy (external beam radiotherapy), which involves remote viewing and treatment from a distance, brachytherapy delivers radiation directly to the lesion or tumor. The high dose of radiation administered through brachytherapy targets the tumor while protecting surrounding healthy tissues. The rapid drop in radiation dose outside the treatment area minimizes the impact on adjacent organs, resulting in fewer side effects and reduced toxicity for the patient.

Applications of Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is particularly effective for gynecological cancers, including cervical and endometrial cancers. It can be administered using an applicator designed for gynecological use. However, its applications extend beyond gynecological cancers. For instance, endoluminal brachytherapy is used for esophageal cancer, and prostate cancer can be treated with radioactive seeds. The radioactive material delivery can be temporary or permanent, depending on the treatment requirements. Temporary brachytherapy involves using an applicator removed after the treatment, while permanent brachytherapy leaves radioactive seeds within the patient to provide continuous treatment for a couple of weeks or months.

Effectiveness in Cervical Cancer Treatment

In cervical cancer cases, brachytherapy, combined with teletherapy and chemotherapy, significantly improves patient outcomes. Dr. Jamara highlights that this combination reduces the risk of local recurrence and increases disease-free survival and overall survival rates. This integrated approach is beneficial in both advanced and early stages of cervical cancer. For patients with advanced cases, the dual effective treatment manages the disease. In the early stages of the disease, it serves as an alternative when surgery is not possible due to various comorbidities.

Preserving Fertility

One of the significant concerns for young patients diagnosed with cervical cancer is fertility preservation. Both surgical interventions and the combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy can lead to early menopause, impacting a patient’s ability to conceive in the future. Dr. Jamara mentions an innovative solution for this issue: oophoropexy(*) or ovarian transposition. This surgical procedure involves repositioning the ovaries outside the radiation field, preserving ovarian function. Consequently, the patient avoids early menopause and retains the possibility of having children after the cancer treatment.

Advantages of Brachytherapy

The primary advantage of brachytherapy lies in its precision. By delivering high doses of radiation directly to the tumor, we spare surrounding healthy tissues, which leads to fewer side effects than other treatment methods. This precision is particularly beneficial in treating cancers in sensitive areas, such as the cervix. Patients undergoing brachytherapy can expect a better quality of life during and after treatment due to the reduced toxicity and lower risk of complications.

Improved Quality of Life

Dr. Jumara Martins emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good quality of life for cancer patients. Brachytherapy contributes to this goal by offering effective cancer control with minimal impact on the patient’s overall health. The targeted nature of brachytherapy reduces the likelihood of local recurrence, ensuring that patients experience more extended periods without disease. The treatment’s lower toxicity also means patients can continue their daily activities with fewer disruptions.

Brachytherapy stands out as a highly effective and patient-friendly cancer treatment option. Its ability to deliver targeted radiation with minimal side effects makes it an essential tool in the fight against various cancers, particularly gynecological cancers. Dr. Jamara’s insights shed light on the versatility and benefits of brachytherapy, underscoring its role in improving patient outcomes and preserving quality of life. For patients facing cancer treatment, understanding and considering brachytherapy could be a pivotal step toward achieving successful results and maintaining a fulfilling life.

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(*) Oophoropexy is a surgical procedure in which one or both ovaries are moved away from the uterus and attached to the abdominal wall.cker, safer, and more comfortable treatment option for cancer patients. Dr. Martins’ insights reveal the significant strides made in this field, underlining the importance of patient education and the benefits of modern high-dose-rate brachytherapy. As the treatment evolves, it promises even better patient outcomes, reinforcing its vital role in cancer therapy.