Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy has been used for over 100 years. It places radiation in direct contact with the tumor. It does this usually with temporary or permanent implants. The implants may be seeds or needles. Treatment with implants is classified as low dose rate (LDR) or high dose rate (HDR).
LDR brachytherapy applies continuous low doses of radiation. The implants are placed in the body either for several days or permanently.
HDR brachytherapy is given in smaller doses. They are, though, more intense and repetitive. HDR implants are taken out immediately after treatment.
Brachytherapy is commonly used for cancers of the prostate, cervix, endometrium, and head and neck.
