Name of the Procedure:

Insertion of Uterine Tandem and/or Vaginal Ovoids for Clinical Brachytherapy

Summary

The procedure involves placing small radioactive devices (called a uterine tandem and/or vaginal ovoids) inside the uterus and/or vagina to deliver high-dose radiation directly to cancerous tissue. It is commonly used for treating cervical or endometrial cancer.

Purpose

This procedure is designed to treat certain types of gynecological cancers (e.g., cervical or endometrial cancer) by delivering concentrated radiation therapy directly to the tumor. The main goal is to destroy cancerous cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

Indications

• Diagnosed with cervical or endometrial cancer.
• Tumors located in or around the uterus and vagina.
• Cases where external beam radiation therapy alone is not sufficient.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours prior to the procedure.
• Pre-procedure imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, to determine tumor location.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, particularly for blood thinners.
• Possible bowel preparation to clear the intestines.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on a special table, usually under general or regional anesthesia.
2. A catheter (tandem) is inserted into the uterus, and ovoids are placed in the vagina.
3. Imaging techniques, like ultrasound or X-ray, ensure accurate placement.
4. A radioactive source is temporarily placed within the tandem and ovoids to deliver radiation directly to the tumor.
5. The radioactive source is removed after the treatment duration is complete.

Duration

The entire process, including preparation, placement, and radiation delivery, typically takes a few hours. The actual radiation delivery can range from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the treatment plan.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital's radiation oncology or surgical suite.

Personnel

• Radiation Oncologist
• Radiology Technicians
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist
• Nurses specialized in oncology

Risks and Complications

• Common risks include discomfort, bleeding, or infection.
• Rare risks might involve damage to nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum.
• Potential long-term complications include scarring and fertility issues.

Benefits

• Targeted radiation minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Higher doses of radiation can be delivered directly to the cancerous tumor.
• May improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment and reduce recurrence.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day or the next morning.
• Post-procedure care includes pain management and anti-inflammatory medications.
• Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor the treatment's effectiveness.

Alternatives

• External beam radiation therapy: Less invasive but may affect surrounding tissues more.
• Surgical options: Tumor removal but involves higher risks and longer recovery.
• Chemotherapy: Used in combination or when radiation is not sufficient.

Patient Experience

• Patients might experience mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure.
• Pain management includes prescribed medication and rest.
• Most patients feel tired and sore for a few days post-procedure.
• There's usually a quick return to normal activities with minimal downtime.