Brachytherapy - High Dose Rate (Hdr)

Brachytherapy can be used as a primary treatment or complimentary to external or surgery.
 
The patient does not carry any radioactive source, so he cannot radiate to other people.

High dose-rate brachytherapy is also known as HDR brachytherapy, involves the application of high doses of radiation by inserting a source of radiation.  Then is passed down the tubes into the organ to be treated or in the surgical bed. The purpose is to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from continuing dividing and spreading. 

 The doctor will place some applicators (thin metal tubes) in the area of ​​the vagina and uterus. Through which will introduce some small metal capsules containing the radioactive material called: Ir-192. The treatment time will depend on the dose determined by the doctor to each condition.  Brachytherapy is recommended for: cervix and endometrium. 

The procedure takes about an hour and is outpatient procedure; it can last from two to five days, according to the dose established by the doctor.