Why is this procedure done?
Radiation therapy is used to treat cancer and other diseases. The goal is to shrink or stop cancer cells from growing. At the same time, you do not want to hurt healthy tissue. A small container holds the radioactive matter. It is known as an implant. A special tool is used to put the implant near or inside the tumor. This way, the radiation only has to travel a short distance. ‚
Sometimes, the implants are put in your body and stay there forever. They give a small dose of radiation for a longer time. Then, they stop giving off radiation. Other times, the implant gives a bigger dose for a short time. These are most often short-term implants. Your doctor will choose the right kind of radiation for you based on the kind of health problem you have. ‚
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What will the results be?
- Shrink the tumor. Sometimes, this is done so less surgery is needed to remove a tumor.
- Lower cancer pain
- Stop the spread of cancer cells
- After surgery, it may be used to make sure the cancer is gone.
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant. Radiation could harm your growing baby.
Your doctor may order: ‚
- Blood tests
- Ultrasounds, MRI or CT scans
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Chest x-rays
- Bowel preparation
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, you will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery. You may be fully asleep or just drowsy for this procedure.
- The doctor uses x-rays or scans to find the exact area to place the implant.
- If your implant will stay in your body, the special tool that helps put the implant in the right place is taken out. Other implants may have the special tool left in place. This tool stays in place until your treatment is finished.
What happens after the procedure?
- Your body may give off a small amount of radiation for a short time after an implant. Talk to your doctor to learn if you will have to make short-term changes in how you live.
- Some implants give off more radiation right away. If this is the kind you have, you may need to:
- Limit the time spent with family and friends. This will keep you from passing radiation to them. Pregnant women and children may not be able to visit you for a while. Talk to your doctor about who may come to visit you.
- You may have to stay in the hospital while your implants are in place. Other people may go home right after the implants are put in place.
- Sometimes, nurses and doctors will limit their contact with you after an implant. They may also use protective clothing. This will lower their radiation exposure.
- Other implants give off a very small amount of radiation and then slowly stop giving off any at all.
- Permanent implants may set off radiation detection equipment at airports. If you will be traveling, request a note from your doctor.
What care is needed at home?
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of liquids each day.
- Get lots of rest. Sleep when you are feeling tired. Avoid doing tiring activities.
Talk to your doctor about how to care for your cut site. Ask your doctor about: ‚
- When you should change your bandages
- How to care for your cut sites
- When you may take a bath or shower
- If you need to be careful with lifting things over 10 pounds
What follow-up care is needed?
Your condition needs close watching. Your doctor will see you throughout your treatment. Be sure to keep these visits. Your doctor may order you to have blood tests to check the effects of radiation to your body. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Eating a healthy diet is important during this time. This means: ‚
- Eat whole grain foods and foods high in fiber.
- Choose many different fruits and vegetables. Fresh or frozen is best.
- Cut back on solid fats like butter or margarine. Eat less fatty or processed foods.
- Eat more low fat or lean meats like chicken, fish, or turkey. Eat less red meat.
- Limit beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Avoid caffeine.
- If you need help, ask to see a dietitian.
What problems could happen?
- You may have pain or soreness at the implant site.
- You may have upset stomach, drowsiness, or weakness after anesthesia.
- Your cancer could come back or not shrink.
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/TreatmentTypes/Radiation/UnderstandingRadiationTherapyAGuideforPatientsandFamilies/understanding-radiation-therapy-internal-radiation-therapy ‚
American College of Radiology ‚
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=brachy ‚
National Cancer Institute ‚
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Therapy/radiation ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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