Brakyterapiaa

Brakyterapiaa, commonly known as brachytherapy, is a form of radiotherapy that involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or next to the area of the body being treated. The term "brachy" comes from the Greek word for "short distance," referring to the close proximity of the radiation source to the tumor. This technique allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered to the target tissue while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy organs and tissues.

Brachytherapy can be used as a primary treatment for certain cancers, such as prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and breast cancer, or as part of a combination treatment with external beam radiation therapy. The radioactive sources used can be temporary or permanent. Temporary sources are inserted and removed after a specific period, while permanent sources are left in place permanently, with their radioactivity decaying over time.

The procedure for brachytherapy varies depending on the type of cancer and the location of the tumor. It may involve the insertion of applicators, needles, or catheters into the body, through which the radioactive sources are guided. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI are often used to precisely position the sources and confirm their placement. Brachytherapy is generally well-tolerated, with side effects often being localized to the treatment area and typically resolving shortly after treatment completion. The precise delivery of radiation in brachytherapy makes it an effective and targeted cancer treatment option.