HOLLOW-TUBE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE

摘要

A novel brachytherapy device is formed from a hollow-tube-shaped seed-substrate, allowing the easy association of the device with suture material. This shape minimizes the chance of migration of implanted seeds due to better attachment to tissue. The distribution of the radioactive material on the exterior surface of the tubular device provides a relatively uniform radiation field around the hollow-tube-shaped brachytherapy seed source. Brachytherapy devices are described that are inherently radioactive. Also disclosed are devices that can be rendered radioactive by the transmuting effects of neutron irradiation. Brachytherapy devices are discussed that facilitate medical application and improve safety for patients and medical personnel.