The Mesothelioma SOS Glossary - Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy involves the implantation of sealed radioactive materials directly into cancerous regions of the body. Brachytherapy, which is also known as endocurietherapy or sealed source therapy, is a form of cancer treatment that is often used to treat cancers of the head, neck and chest. Typically, these treatments involve the use of Iridium-192 wire, a radioactive element. There are four main types of brachytherapy. Surface applicator, or “mould” brachytherapy involves the treatment of superficial tumors by using sealed source applicators, which are filled with radioactive materials, and placed close to the skin’s surface, killing any cancerous cells. Interstitial brachytherapy involves the actual insertion of the sealed radioactive sources directly into the cancerous tissue. Intracavitary brachytherapy involves placing the source inside different pre-existing body cavities, and is most commonly inserted through the nasopharynx (the region behind the mouth). Finally, Intravascular brachytherapy involves the insertion of a catheter with the radioactive sources sealed inside. Typically, brachytherapy is done while patients are isolated in private rooms, in order to avoid staff exposure to radioactive materials.