Endocavitary

Endocavitary refers to a procedure or device that is placed inside a body cavity, such as the abdomen or chest, to treat a specific condition. The term is often used in the context of cancer treatment, particularly for gynecological and urological cancers. Endocavitary therapy involves the use of radioactive seeds, brachytherapy, or other forms of localized radiation to deliver high doses of radiation directly to the tumor site, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

The procedure typically requires minimally invasive surgery to implant the endocavitary device or seeds into the targeted area. Once in place, the device releases radiation over a period of time, often days or weeks, to destroy cancer cells. This approach is particularly effective for treating cancers that are confined to a specific area, such as the prostate or uterine cavity.

Endocavitary therapy is often combined with other treatments, such as external beam radiation therapy or chemotherapy, to provide comprehensive cancer care. The benefits of endocavitary therapy include precise targeting of the tumor, reduced side effects compared to whole-body radiation, and the potential for improved local control of the disease.

However, like any medical treatment, endocavitary therapy has potential risks and side effects. These can include inflammation, infection, and damage to nearby organs or structures. Patients undergoing endocavitary therapy should be closely monitored by their healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes and manage any complications that may arise.