Brachytherapy Program

Brachytherapy implies that the source of radiation is very close to the target to be treated. Brachytherapy is a method for delivering very localized radiation to small tumours, which have not spread, or to deliver an additional dose of radiation to a small volume at high risk for recurrence. It is achieved by placing a small radiation source directly into a naturally occurring body cavity. Brachytherapy is often used in patients with cancers of the cervix and prostate often in association external radiation therapy. It is also used for patients with cancer of the uterus who have had surgery and have a high risk of recurrence at the top of the vagina. Intracavitary radiation is also used as an adjunct to external beam radiotherapy in some cases of esophageal cancer and lung cancer. The amount of external beam radiation that can be safely delivered to a big volume is often much less than the dose that is required to kill the tumour. The pattern of the radiation dosage from brachytherapy devices allows the delivery of additional radiation to the volume of interest without exposing the surrounding normal tissues to excessive radiation.
 

Integrated Brachytherapy Unit
 

Genesis Cancer Care developed Australia's first integrated brachytherapy unit at the Mater hospital in North Sydney. This sepcialised service enables brachytherapy procedures to be performed in a purpose built theater located within the radiotherapy department. This development improves the efficiency of brachytherapy treatments and reduces the need and risk associated with transferring patients throughout the hospital.

Mobile Seed Program
 

Genesis Cancer Care has developed a program which enables patient to have improved assess to brachytherapy prostate seed procedures. This treatment technique is often very useful in the treatment of early stage prostate cancer. In conjunction with you urologist Genesis Cancer Care can provide the service at your local hospital. Please check with your specialist regarding the availability of this service in your area. Alternatively we can provide on request a list of participating urologists and and hospitals.