Plaque radiotherapy

Plaque radiotherapy is a type of radiation therapy that is used to treat eye cancer, specifically intraocular melanoma. The procedure involves attaching a small disc, or plaque, lined with radioactive seeds to the outside of the eye. The plaque is positioned so that the radiation is directed towards the tumor. This form of therapy is also known as brachytherapy.

Procedure

The procedure for plaque radiotherapy typically involves the following steps:

1. A plaque made of gold or lead is created. The plaque is shaped to match the size and shape of the tumor. The plaque is then lined with radioactive seeds. The type of radiation used is usually Iodine-125, although other types of radiation can also be used.
2. The plaque is surgically attached to the outside of the eye, directly over the tumor. The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia.
3. The plaque is left in place for several days. During this time, the radiation from the seeds travels a short distance to the tumor, killing the cancer cells.
4. After the treatment period, the plaque is surgically removed.

Benefits

The main benefit of plaque radiotherapy is that it allows for targeted treatment of the tumor. This means that the radiation can be directed specifically at the cancer cells, minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. This is particularly important in the treatment of eye cancer, as it helps to preserve vision.

Risks

As with any form of radiation therapy, there are risks associated with plaque radiotherapy. These can include:

• Damage to healthy tissue near the tumor
• Development of cataracts
• Loss of vision
• Radiation retinopathy, a condition that causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina

See also

• Radiation therapy
• Eye cancer
• Intraocular melanoma
• Brachytherapy