Brachytherapy: A Guide to Internal Radiation Therapy

Brachytherapy in India

Brachytherapy is a precise form of radiation treatment in which a radioactive source is placed directly inside or very close to a tumour. By delivering a high dose exactly where it is needed while sparing surrounding healthy tissue, it offers an effective, targeted approach to several cancers, including those of the prostate, cervix and breast. India’s cancer centres offer this advanced therapy to a high standard.

How it differs from external radiation

Conventional radiotherapy directs beams at the tumour from outside the body. Brachytherapy instead places the radiation source within or beside the tumour itself, concentrating the dose precisely on the cancer and reducing exposure to nearby healthy organs, which can mean fewer side effects.

Which cancers it treats

Brachytherapy is used effectively for cancers of the prostate, cervix and other gynaecological sites, the breast, and certain other areas. It may be used on its own or combined with external radiotherapy, surgery or other treatments, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

How it is delivered

Small radioactive sources, often tiny seeds or temporary applicators, are positioned with great accuracy using imaging guidance. Some treatments leave low-dose sources in place permanently as they fade, while others deliver a high dose over a short, planned time and are then removed.

What to expect

Depending on the technique, brachytherapy may be done as a day procedure or with a short hospital stay, often under anaesthetic or sedation for placement. Side effects are usually more localised and milder than with broader radiation, and your team monitors and supports you throughout.

The advantages of precision

The great benefit of brachytherapy is its targeting: a powerful dose to the tumour, much less to everything else. For suitable cancers, this can mean effective treatment, a shorter course, and a gentler experience overall.

How we help

Advanced cancer treatment should be matched to you precisely. We connect you with accredited cancer centres and experienced radiation oncologists in India who offer brachytherapy, help you understand whether it suits your case and what it costs, and coordinate your treatment and travel with full support.

We are a medical facilitation service, not a healthcare provider. All medical care is delivered by the accredited hospitals and qualified specialists in our network. Treatment suitability and outcomes are determined by your treating doctors.