Cancer Resources and Support
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Precision targeting cancer and other diseases
Brachytherapy delivers targeted radiation directly to the tumor, which reduces damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It often requires shorter treatment times and fewer hospital stays. This therapy is highly effective for treating cancers in sensitive areas like the prostate, breast, and reproductive organs and can also help with heart conditions like blocked blood vessels.
Corewell Health has developed a reputation for radiotherapeutic-cancer treatment excellence.
How it works
Brachytherapy, or internal radiation, uses tiny radioactive seeds—about the size of a grain of rice—implanted in the body to treat certain cancers. Because it targets the tumor directly, it reduces the risk of harming healthy tissue.
Brachytherapy treatments
There are three types of brachytherapy delivery:
Interstitial treatment (needle implant)
Radioactive implants are placed directly into the tumor and may stay in the patient.
Intracavitary treatment (balloon implant or MammoSite RTS Balloon)
Radioactive implants are placed inside body cavities such as the vagina, uterus, or breast.
Unsealed internal radiation therapy
A medication containing radioactive materials is injected into a vein or into a body cavity.
Brachytherapy implant placement may be one of two types:
Permanent brachytherapy
Also called low dose rate brachytherapy, implants are inserted directly into a tumor. Since their small size causes little or no discomfort, the implants are left in place after treatment.
Temporary brachytherapy
Temporary brachytherapy refers to the use of implants that are removed after the treatment has ended.
Types of brachytherapy treatments
Brachytherapy is a minimally invasive cancer treatment that delivers targeted radiation directly to the tumor. It requires less time than traditional radiation, can be done inpatient or outpatient with local anesthesia, and causes fewer side effects, usually limited to the treated area. This approach protects healthy tissue and supports faster recovery.
Breast cancer brachytherapy
Involves placing small radiation sources inside or near the breast tumor, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
Coronary brachytherapy
Treats blocked coronary arteries by delivering radiation to prevent the artery from narrowing again.
Eye plaque brachytherapy
Uses a radioactive plaque placed on the eye to treat tumors, such as melanoma, while preserving vision.
Gynecologic brachytherapy
Targets cancers in the uterus, cervix, or vagina with direct radiation delivery to the affected areas.
Prostate brachytherapy
Involves implanting radioactive seeds into the prostate to precisely treat prostate cancer.
Need deeper understanding?
Speak with a specialist to learn more or get a second opinion to confirm a diagnosis or to validate treatment.