Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy, also known as internal radiation, is a precise radiation treatment that can be used on mesothelioma patients. This form of radiation involves placing radioactive seeds near or inside malignant tumors. Brachytherapy allows a strong dose of radiation to be delivered without harming normal cells. The procedure usually takes up to an hour and a hospital stay is not required. After a brachytherapy, the seeds deliver radiation for approximately one year.

These radioactive seeds can be implanted in two ways. The first method known as intracavitary treatment passes radioactive sources in special containers through body cavities, such as the windpipe. An alternative method is known as interstitial treatment. This form of brachytherapy delivers the radiation into the tumor through thin needles. Depending on the patient’s health and location of the tumor, the doctor will determine which treatment method should be used. Patients receiving brachytherapy usually have less side effects than those receiving localized forms of radiation.