Name of the Procedure:

Brachytherapy Source, Non-Stranded, Gold-198, Per Source (C1716)

Common Name(s):

• Gold-198 Brachytherapy
• Radioactive Seed Implantation

Technical/Medical Term:

• Non-Stranded Gold-198 Source Brachytherapy

Summary

Brachytherapy with Gold-198 involves placing tiny radioactive seeds directly into or near a tumor. These seeds emit radiation over a short distance, effectively killing or shrinking cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Purpose

This procedure is primarily used to treat certain types of cancers, including prostate, cervical, and skin cancers, among others. The goal is to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation to the tumor, increasing the likelihood of destroying cancer cells while protecting nearby tissues.

Indications

Common indications for Brachytherapy with Gold-198 include:

• Localized prostate cancer
• Specific types of skin cancer
• Early-stage cervical cancer
• Tumors in locations where precision radiation delivery is crucial

Patient Criteria:

• Tumor is localized and accessible for seed implantation
• Overall health status supports undergoing a minor surgical procedure

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Patients may be advised to fast for a certain period
• Adjustments to medications, especially blood thinners
• Consent forms need to be signed after detailed consultation

Diagnostic Tests:

• Imaging scans (MRI, CT) to determine the tumor's size and location
• Blood tests to assess general health

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: Patient is positioned, and the target area is cleaned.
2. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia may be administered.
3. Insertion of Seeds: Using imaging guidance, needles are inserted into the tumor site, and the Gold-198 seeds are placed in precise locations.
4. Verification: Imaging techniques confirm correct placement.
5. Completion: The procedure concludes with the removal of needles and post-placement imaging.

Tools and Technology:

• Imaging tools like ultrasound, MRI, or CT
• Brachytherapy needles and Gold-198 seeds

Anesthesia Details:

• Local anesthesia for small and accessible tumors
• General anesthesia may be used for more complex cases

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the tumor's size and location.

Setting

Brachytherapy with Gold-198 is usually performed in a hospital or specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

Involved Healthcare Professionals:

• Radiation Oncologist
• Medical Physicist
• Radiation Therapist
• Surgical Nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild discomfort or pain at the insertion site
• Temporary swelling or bruising

Rare Risks:

• Infection at the insertion site
• Unintended radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissue
• Seed migration

Management:

• Antibiotics for infection
• Monitoring and supportive care for other complications

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Highly targeted radiation delivery
• Minimization of damage to healthy tissues
• Effective tumor control or shrinkage

Timeframe:

• Benefits may be observed within weeks to months, with follow-up imaging confirming results.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Rest and minimal physical activity for the first few days
• Pain management with prescribed medications

Follow-up:

• Regular follow-up appointments for imaging and health assessment
• Restrictions on certain activities may apply for a short period

Recovery Time:

• Generally, a few days to a week for initial recovery, with most patients returning to normal activities shortly thereafter.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• External beam radiation therapy
• Surgery (e.g., tumor excision)
• Chemotherapy

Pros and Cons:

• External Beam Radiation: Non-invasive but may affect more healthy tissue.
• Surgery: Immediate removal of the tumor but involves surgical risks.
• Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment affecting the whole body, might be more suitable for widespread cancer.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort from anesthesia administration
• Generally painless due to the anesthesia

After the Procedure:

• Possible mild pain or swelling at the insertion site
• Short-term restrictions on activity

Pain Management:

• Prescription pain relievers as needed
• Comfort measures include ice packs and rest

This comprehensive overview should help you understand the essential aspects of Brachytherapy with Non-Stranded Gold-198. If you have any further questions or need personalized advice, please consult your healthcare provider.