What is balloon brachytherapy?
Balloon breast brachytherapy (BBB) is a technique for delivering radiation treatment in women with early-stage breast cancer. It is given after lumpectomy, or surgical removal of a small breast neoplasm, and is a shorter alternative to the more traditional method of external beam radiation for seven weeks.
What equipment is used in brachytherapy?
Imaging equipment, such as a CT scanner or ultrasound machine, may be used to ensure the device is placed in the most effective location. Radiation inserted into body tissue. During interstitial brachytherapy, devices containing radioactive material are placed within body tissue, such as within the breast or prostate.
What is a radiation balloon?
Listen to pronunciation. (buh-LOON KA-theh-ter RAY-dee-AY-shun) A system used to deliver internal radiation therapy to breast cancer patients after surgery to remove their cancer. Balloon catheter radiation targets only the part of the breast where the cancer was found.
Does brachytherapy involve surgery?
Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy used to treat various cancers. Treatment involves surgically placing radioactive seeds, capsules or other implants directly in or near the cancerous tumor. The implants give off radiation for a short time.
How long do you pee blood after brachytherapy?
A small amount of blood in your urine or ejaculate is normal and may appear pink in color. This will usually disappear 3 – 7 days after your procedure. Call your physician if bleeding continues after 7 days or you pass blood clots in your urine.
What happens to prostate after brachytherapy?
In some men, permanent seed brachytherapy can cause the prostate to swell, narrowing the urethra and making it difficult to urinate. A few men find they suddenly and painfully can’t urinate in the first few days or weeks after treatment. This is called acute urine retention.
Is radioactive seed localization painful?
The seed placement procedure can often be performed with minimal or no discomfort. The radiologist will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting the procedure. The local anesthetic may cause a brief burning sensation before the area becomes numb.
What should I eat after brachytherapy?
Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. Drinking clear liquids or eating bland foods such as dry toast or crackers may also help. Avoid fatty, fried, spicy or very sweet foods.