Brachytherapy in Singapore may have both short- and long-term effects on your physical and emotional health.
We understand that the prospect of treatment having a long-lasting effect can be frightening. If you'd like to learn more about what to expect from brachytherapy or how to manage any side effects, here are some frequently asked questions about the procedure.
What are the various types of brachytherapy treatments available?
Brachytherapy in Singapore is the process of injecting radioactive material into a patient's body. The treatments can be temporary, lasting from a few minutes to several days, or they can be permanent. A single temporary brachytherapy treatment can be given, or a series of treatments can be given. Temporary brachytherapy, for example, can be used to treat breast cancer after a lumpectomy. Permanent brachytherapy delivers the treatment gradually over weeks to months via implanted sources. After that period, the sources become non-radioactive and remain inside the patient's body. Permanent brachytherapy is used for breast cancer treatment in Singapore, for example.
Is hospitalisation necessary for SHORT-TERM brachytherapy treatment?
As long as the sources are inside or in contact with the body, patients remain in the hospital or radiotherapy facility for the duration of the temporary brachytherapy treatment in Singapore. After the sources have been removed, the radiotherapy staff will perform a radiation survey to ensure that all radioactive sources have been removed. Between treatments, patients receiving a series of treatments are typically able to return home. Hospital staff may be required to limit their time in the vicinity of patients, and visitors may be restricted while the sources are present.
Is hospitalisation necessary for LONG-TERM brachytherapy treatment in Singapore?
In some cases, patients can be discharged from the hospital the same day the sources are implanted, while in others, hospitalisation for one or more days is necessary for medical recovery. Permanent brachytherapy sources are chosen in such a way that nearly all of the radiation is absorbed within the patient's body, resulting in extremely low radiation levels surrounding the patient.
If you’re looking for the best cervical cancer treatment in Singapore, visit Dr Johann Tang - Radiation Oncologist Singapore.
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