brachytherapy
Pronunciation: BRAY-kee-therapy
A form of radiation therapy where radioactive sources are placed directly inside or adjacent to the tumor.
Full Definition
Brachytherapy is a precise radiation treatment technique involving the temporary or permanent placement of radioactive sources within or near the target tissue. This approach allows for high-dose radiation delivery to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Common applications include prostate, cervical, breast, and skin cancers. The technique offers advantages in terms of treatment duration and normal tissue sparing compared to external beam radiation. In oncology records, brachytherapy specifications including dose rate, isotope type, and duration must be accurately documented.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether high-dose-rate or low-dose-rate when documenting treatment plans.
In Context
- "High-dose-rate brachytherapy was planned for cervical cancer treatment." — Treatment plan
- "The patient received permanent seed brachytherapy for localized prostate cancer." — Discharge summary