Comprehensive Cancer Care Services

Services | Radiation Therapy| Gynecological Brachytherapy

Gynecological Brachytherapy

Gynecological Brachytherapy or “GYN implant” is a common method of treatment for vaginal and cervical cancers. This treatment technique utilizes equipment called “applicators” that are inserted into the vagina or cervix to position the radiation source in close proximity to the disease. These applicators are then connected to a highly-sophisticated remote controlled delivery device called a High Dose Rate (HDR) Remote After-loader. This device contains the radioactive source connected to a thin cable which can be precisely positioned anywhere within the applicators. The radiation is performed on an outpatient basis and usually consists of 3 to 5 treatments spread out over 2 to 3 weeks but can vary significantly based on disease type. The applicators are removed after each treatment and no source of radiation remains in the patient’s body between treatments or after the final procedure.