Role of interstitial brachytherapy in the treatment of malignant disease.

Authors :: Kolotas C
Zamboglou N
Source :: Onkologie [Onkologie] 2001 Jun; Vol. 24 (3), pp. 222-8.
Publication Year :: 2001
Abstract: Interstitial brachytherapy was first applied using radium needles, with minimum protection of physicians and nurses. Modern techniques involve the use of radionuclide (192)Ir as the source used in computer-controlled remote afterloading machines, which can deliver a high dose rate (HDR). Treatment planning is also undertaken with the use of computers and anatomical cross-section images using CT, ultrasound and MRI. This review presents these modern techniques for tumors of a series of body sites: prostate, head and neck, breast, bladder, brain, and for soft-tissue sarcomas. Low dose rate (LDR) interstitial brachytherapy techniques are also included in this review since in some body sites there is a choice between HDR and LDR.<br /> (Copyright 2001 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg)