An effective form of radiotherapy is treatment by means of Brachytherapy (from Greek: short, near). This technique is different from conventional radiotherapy methods in that the source of the radiation is placed inside or in close proximity to the part of the body that will be irradiated. The radiation has an effect on a very limited area. Therefore, the exposure to radiation of healthy tissue which is far away from the radiation source is greatly reduced.
The risk of side effects is localised. Radiation exposure of the organs at risk is minimalised. Acute and/or subacute side-effects usually wear off within days or a small number of weeks. Depending on the disease pattern, Brachytherapy can be used exclusively or in combination with other forms of therapy, for example with an operation, external radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Advantages of Brachytherapy
- High effectiveness
- High tolerance
- Conservation of surrounding tissue and neighbouring organs
Procedure and course of treatment
Brachytherapy treatment can be carried out over a short period. In contrast to external radiation therapy, patients have to spend comparatively little time in the clinic. The treatment can often be carried out on an outpatient basis. Due to the high tolerance level, brachytherapy represents a relief for many patients.
After a thorough examination and visual imaging of the tumor, applicators are introduced into the body and postioned around the affected tissue. The radiation is then fed through the applicators via ‚Afterloading‘. At the end of the treatment, the applicators are removed from the body along with the radiation sources.
Outpatients and inpatients
The therapy concept is offered to both inpatients and outpatients in conjunction with the MVZ MediClin Bonn.
Indications about brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is suited to small or advanced tumors, although not to metastases. In cases where it is not possible to perform an operation, brachytherapy often represents the best chance of curing locally advanced tumors. The therapy concept can also be utilised palliative treatment to dilute symptoms.
What we can treat:
- Gynaecological tumors
- Lung cancer
- Oesophagal cancer