Internal radiotherapy

Internal radiotherapy consists in placing a radiation source inside the body, next to the tumor. There are two types of internal radiotherapy: intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) and endorectal brachytherapy.

Brachytherapy is the name given to radiotherapy where a sealed radiation source is put inside the body, next to the area to treat

Intraoperative Radiotherapy (IORT) 

Intraoperative radiotherapy is a state-of-the-art treatment with a single dose of radiation therapy in a single session.

During surgery, immediately after the tumor is removed, a machine applies a beam of concentrated radiation over the area where there might still be hidden tumor cells.

Because the procedure is done during surgery and on a very precise area, it is possible to use a higher (and therefore more effective) radiation dose than usual while sparing healthy neighboring tissues.

Intraoperative radiation therapy is used to treat a selected group of patients whose rectal cancer recurred in the pelvic area after initial treatment with surgery or radiotherapy. 

Endorectal brachytherapy

Endorectal brachytherapy is an option available for some patients with recurrent rectal cancer, who are not good candidates for surgery.

In this procedure, radioactive seeds or clusters are placed temporarily in the rectum next to the tumor, using a special applicator. In this way, a high dose of radiation goes to a highly localized area, minimizing the exposure of healthy neighboring tissues.

Brachytherapy in the treatment of rectal cancer has shown better results than external radiotherapy preserving the rectum and anus (avoiding the colostomy).