Thymus cancer treatment with brachytherapy

Brachytherapy aims to impact cancerous lesions and primary tumors by constant low dosages of ionizing exposure from a small radiation source (usually up to 5 mm in diameter). It is believed to be an excellent method for thymus cancer treatment, as it doesn't impact at all or create the slightest possible radiation influence on vital organs near the thymus, including the health, aorta, and others. Brachytherapy is considered much slower in efficiency but a much safer approach regarding possible adverse effects than traditional radiotherapy. Currently, oncologists and radiation oncologists use palladium-103,cesium-131, iodine-125, and iridium-192 brachytherapy sources for thymus cancer, also called "seeds. " The procedure of seed placement involves creating a small cut on the patient's chest and implanting a small radiation source in the middle of the thymus tumor. Often, it might be done with the use of endoscopic technologies. When planted, the radiation source might remain in the patient's body as long as oncologists consider it worthwhile. Brachytherapy often helps decrease the thymus tumor stage and makes it more suitable for further surgical treatment. It can be a primary therapy and part of the combined strategy.