Brachyterapialähteet

Brachyterapialähteet refers to the radioactive sources used in brachytherapy, a type of internal radiation therapy. In brachytherapy, radioactive materials are placed directly inside or very close to the tumor. This allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered precisely to the cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The term "brachyterapialähteet" encompasses the various radioactive isotopes and their delivery mechanisms employed for this purpose.

Commonly used brachyterapialähteet include isotopes like Iodine-125, Palladium-103, Cesium-131, and Iridium-192. These isotopes are chosen based on their decay rate, energy emission, and suitability for specific cancer types and treatment durations. For permanent implants, isotopes with shorter half-lives like Iodine-125 are often used, as they deliver their radiation dose over a period of months and then become inactive. For temporary implants, isotopes with longer half-lives such as Iridium-192 might be employed, where the sources are removed after a specific treatment time.

The brachyterapialähteet are typically encapsulated in small seeds, wires, needles, or pellets. These forms are then loaded into applicators or catheters that are precisely positioned within the body by medical professionals. The positioning is crucial for ensuring accurate radiation delivery. Brachytherapy is used to treat a variety of cancers, including prostate, breast, cervical, and skin cancers, often as a primary treatment or in conjunction with other therapies. The development and refinement of brachyterapialähteet have significantly advanced the effectiveness and precision of cancer treatment.