brachytherapy
(brak‵ē-ther'ă-pē 
)
[ brachy- + therapy ]
In radiation therapy, the use of implants of radioactive materials such as radium, cesium, iridium, or gold at the treatment site, e.g., an internal organ with a malignant lesion. It is classified by dose (low, medium, high, or pulsed); by duration (temporary or permanent); and by placement (contact or interstitial).SYN: endocurietherapy; implant radiation therapy; internal radiation therapy.
The treated patient can emit radiation and can endanger others. If the radiation source is dislodged, it is removed by a radiation safety officer using special long-hand led tongs and is placed in a lead container. All linens and dressings are considered contaminated. Pregnant women and children younger than 16 should not visit the patient.Patient Care: Before treatment, patient care focuses on explanation of the therapy, including a discussion of its planned duration, potential side effects, expected limitations on the patient’s lifestyle, and typical efficacy. After implantation, patient care includes comfort care, radiation protection for staff and visitors, monitoring the patient for any untoward effects, and concluding the therapy, with an explanation of any expected sequella or activity restrictions.
ABBR: INB
Brachytherapy in which small pellets, needles, or catheters containing radioactive material are inserted into the tissues surrounding a cancer surgery in an attempt to destroy any malignant cells left behind postoperatively. The radioactive agent typically used in breast cancer treatment is iridium-192. Cesium-131 is used to treat prostate cancers. Radium or cesium implants may be used to treat cervical cancers.intra-arterial b.Radioembolization, i.e., the treatment of a tumor with radioactive particles injected into its blood supply.
vascular b.Temporary implantation of radioactive material within the lumen of a blood vessel. It is used to prevent blood vessels opened by stents or other invasive cardiovascular procedures from closing again after invasive cardiovascular procedures, e.g., stent placements.