Name of the Procedure:

Brachytherapy Needle Insertion (Medtec MT-BT-5001-25, MT-BT-5051-25)

Summary

Brachytherapy needle insertion involves placing small radioactive seeds directly into or near a tumor, using specialized needles. This procedure targets cancer cells more precisely, minimizing exposure and damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Purpose

This procedure is used primarily to treat cancers, including prostate, cervical, and breast cancer. The goal is to deliver high doses of radiation to the tumor with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues.

Indications

• Localized prostate cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Breast cancer
• Tumors that are accessible for needle insertion
• Patients suitable for a minimally invasive approach

Preparation

• Fasting instructions: Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments: Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, may need to be paused.
• Pre-procedure tests: Imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scan), and possibly blood tests, to plan the treatment precisely.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Typically, local anesthesia or light sedation is administered.
2. Imaging: Ultrasound or other imaging technologies guide the needle insertion.
3. Insertion: Using the Medtec MT-BT-5001-25 or MT-BT-5051-25 needles, radioactive seeds are inserted into or near the tumor.
4. Placement: Imaging ensures accurate placement of the seeds.
5. Completion: The area is monitored briefly for any immediate complications before the patient is allowed to leave.

Duration

The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Brachytherapy needle insertion is performed in a hospital's radiology or oncology department, often in an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Radiologist or Radiation Oncologist
• Registered Nurse
• Radiologic Technologist
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Mild bleeding or bruising at the insertion site, minor pain or discomfort.
• Rare risks: Infection, unintended radiation exposure to surrounding tissues, and urinary/cervical complications.

Benefits

• Precise targeting of cancer cells
• Reduced exposure to surrounding healthy tissue
• Short recovery time
• Effective local control of cancer

Recovery

• Patients may experience minor discomfort, managed with mild pain relievers.
• Normal activities can typically be resumed within a day or two.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the efficacy and manage any side effects.

Alternatives

• External Beam Radiation Therapy: Less precise but involves no invasive procedure.
• Surgery: More invasive with longer recovery time.
• Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment, potentially with more side effects.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel some pressure or mild discomfort from the needle insertion, but anesthesia ensures minimal pain. Post-procedure, slight tenderness and bruising at the site are common. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and rest. Most patients return to their usual activities within a day or two.