How do radioactive implants work?
Radioactive implants work by delivering a high dose of radiation directly to a tumor or other target tissue. This is done by placing small, sealed sources of radioactive material into or near the tumor. The radiation emitted by the implant damages the DNA of cancer cells, causing them to die.
Radioactive implants are typically used to treat small, localized tumors that are not easily removed by surgery. They can also be used to treat tumors that have recurred after surgery or radiation therapy.
The type of radioactive material used in an implant depends on the type of cancer being treated. Some of the most common radioactive materials used in implants include iodine-125, palladium-103, and cesium-137.
Radioactive implants are typically placed during a minimally invasive procedure. The patient is given a local anesthetic, and the implant is inserted into the tumor using a thin needle. The procedure usually takes less than an hour.
After the implant is placed, the patient will need to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. During this time, the patient will be given pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.
Radioactive implants are a safe and effective treatment for many types of cancer. They can provide long-term relief from cancer pain and improve quality of life.
Here are some of the benefits of radioactive implants:
* They are minimally invasive. Radioactive implants are typically placed during a minimally invasive procedure, which means there is less pain and scarring than with surgery.
* They are highly localized. Radioactive implants deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor, while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
* They can be used to treat recurrent cancer. Radioactive implants can be used to treat tumors that have recurred after surgery or radiation therapy.
* They can provide long-term relief from cancer pain. Radioactive implants can help to reduce or eliminate cancer pain, allowing patients to improve their quality of life.