Brachytherapy, also referred to as seed implants or radioactive seed implants, is an outpatient radiation therapy used to destroy cancer from within the body.

Brachytherapy involves implanting tiny seeds, smaller than a grain of rice, containing radioactive iridium directly into the middle of the cancer or tumor. This therapy selectively kills cancer cells and does little damage to surrounding normal, healthy cells.

Brachytherapy is an outpatient procedure that typically takes an hour and does not require an overnight stay in the hospital. The seeds remain in the body and give off radiation for about one year. They may be placed into the tumor by:

• Interstitial radiation: small pellets, wires, tubes or other containers
  
• Intracavity radiation: inside a body cavity through sealed containers and placed close to the affected area

Each patient's treatment depends on several factors including:

• The type of cancer
• Where the cancer is located
• The patient's general health
• Other cancer treatments the patient has received

Brachytherapy can be used to treat these cancers and tumors:

• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Anal tumors
• Rectal cancers
• Bile duct cancers
• Sarcomas
• Tumors of the head and neck
• Pancreatic cancer

Information

For more information about the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center or to schedule an appointment, please call (800) 749-7424 or (352) 265-8000.

Shands at UF Cancer Services were ranked 46th in the country by U.S.News&World Report. Learn more.

Shands at UF Cancer Services Navigation

History

University of Florida Shands Cancer Center 2007 Annual Report (PDF file)

Types of Cancer

Brain Cancer

Breast Cancer

Colon Cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancers

Genitourinary Cancers

Gynecological Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

Larynx Cancer

Leukemia

Lung Cancer

Lymphoma

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Skin Cancer

Cancer Treatment

Bone Marrow Transplant

Brachytherapy

Chemotherapy

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Surgery

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment or find out more information about cancer services offered at Shands at the University of Florida, please call 352.265.8000 or toll-free 1.800.749.7424

You may also email our Consultation Center (consult@shands.ufl.edu) or use our secure online form.