What should you know about high dose rate electronic brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiotherapy. A clinician places an applicator in a body cavity or against a treatment site, then connects it to a device that controls the radiation delivery. Electronic systems generate the radiation near the applicator rather than relying on a radioactive source that remains in the body. The applicator is removed after the session, so there is no implanted source left behind from that treatment.

The exact experience depends on the body region, the applicator, and whether treatment is combined with other cancer care. Some people have several brief sessions; your team will explain the schedule, preparation, and any anaesthesia or pain relief needed.

Follow the instructions about eating, drinking, medicines, and arriving with clean skin around the treatment area. Tell the team about pregnancy, allergies, bleeding problems, infections, and medicines that affect clotting. Arrange practical support if you may feel tired or need help travelling home. Keep the treated area clean and use only products recommended by your oncology team.

Contact your oncology service promptly for fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, new discharge with an unusual smell, difficulty passing urine, or trouble opening your bowels after treatment. Seek urgent medical help for severe weakness, fainting, breathing difficulty, or bleeding that does not settle. These symptoms can have causes unrelated to brachytherapy, but they need assessment.

Ask which area will be treated, how the applicator is positioned, how many visits are planned, and whether you need anaesthesia. Ask which side effects should be expected, how to care for the area afterwards, and who to call outside clinic hours.