Does a radiation oncology perform brachytherapy?

The available technique depends on the tumour site, treatment goal, previous treatment and whether the centre has the necessary equipment and expertise.

Brachytherapy places a radiation source inside the body, within or close to the area being treated. This allows the team to shape the dose around the target while limiting exposure farther away. The source may be placed temporarily through an applicator or catheter, or certain treatments may use implanted sources that remain in place.

The radiation oncologist decides whether the method fits your diagnosis and designs the treatment. Medical physicists, radiation therapists, nurses and, when needed, anaesthesia or surgical teams help plan imaging, source placement, radiation delivery and aftercare.

Bring your scan reports, pathology information, treatment history and a current medicine list if the centre does not already have them. Mention blood-thinning medicines, implanted devices, allergies, pregnancy possibility and any difficulty lying in the required position.

Follow the centre's specific instructions about eating, drinking, bowel or bladder preparation and transport home. These instructions vary with the body area, placement method and type of anaesthesia or sedation, so use the plan given directly by your treatment team.

After a procedure, use the discharge contact urgently for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, fainting, severe or rapidly worsening pain, inability to pass urine, or marked swelling. Call local emergency services when symptoms are severe or you cannot reach the treatment centre quickly.

Report fever, increasing redness or discharge around an insertion area, persistent vomiting, worsening urinary or bowel problems, or symptoms that stop you drinking or taking prescribed medicine. Your team can determine whether you need an examination, symptom treatment or an adjustment to the care plan.

Ask why brachytherapy is being recommended, whether the source is temporary or remains in place, what preparation and pain control are planned, and which effects are expected for the treated body area. Confirm any precautions around other people, when normal activities can resume and which symptoms require an urgent call.