What it is
Brachytherapy is a type of cancer treatment where small radioactive sources are placed inside or near a tumour to kill cancer cells. This procedure is used for various cancers, including cervical, prostate, and gynaecological cancers.
What research shows
Studies suggest that brachytherapy is effective in treating localised and locally advanced cancers, with evidence indicating improved tumour control and survival rates. However, access to brachytherapy remains limited in low- and middle-income countries, and more research is needed to address these disparities. The use of artificial intelligence in brachytherapy has also shown promise in improving treatment outcomes.
Current status
Brachytherapy is a valuable treatment option for certain types of cancer, but its availability and accessibility need to be improved. Further research is needed to address the challenges in implementing brachytherapy in low- and middle-income countries and to explore its potential applications in combination with other treatments.
Moderate evidenceKey studies
- PMID 42365626PubMed ↗
Brachytherapy is an important modality in the treatment of cervical cancer and prostate cancer, but its use is limited in low- and middle-income countries due to resource barriers.
- PMID 42232846PubMed ↗
Artificial intelligence methods have been compared with current clinical standards in brachytherapy, showing promise in improving treatment outcomes.
- PMID 41785895PubMed ↗
A population-based observational study quantified the global demand and supply of brachytherapy resources, highlighting inequities in access to this treatment.
- PMID 40472997PubMed ↗
Salvage brachytherapy is an option for patients with local recurrence of cancer after definitive irradiation, but its effectiveness varies depending on the type of cancer and patient population.
- PMID 38395662PubMed ↗
A positive COVID-19 test can lead to delays in initiating and completing brachytherapy, which may have adverse oncologic outcomes for patients with cervical, uterine, and prostate cancer.
This information is provided for general education only and is not medical advice. Medical procedures carry individual risks and benefits. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your treatment.