Brachytherapy techniques can be classified into how many categories?

Brachytherapy techniques can be classified into four main categories, which include low-dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy, high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, pulsed-dose rate (PDR) brachytherapy, and permanent implant brachytherapy.

Low-dose rate brachytherapy delivers a continuous low dose of radiation over an extended time period, while high-dose rate brachytherapy involves the delivery of a higher dose of radiation in a shorter time frame, usually by the use of afterloading techniques. Pulsed-dose rate brachytherapy combines elements from both LDR and HDR by delivering radiation in pulses, allowing for a more tailored approach to treatment. Lastly, permanent implant brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds or sources directly into or near the tumor, where they remain in place to deliver radiation over time.

Understanding these four categories is crucial for medical dosimetrists as they impact treatment planning, patient management, and the specific techniques employed based on cancer types and treatment goals. This classification allows healthcare professionals to choose the most appropriate approach based on various factors, including tumor characteristics, patient health, and treatment objectives.