There are two main types of brachytherapy based on the type of implants:
Permanent brachytherapy: This involves injecting the needles filled with radioactive seeds directly into the tumor area. The seeds are then left in the body and the needle are taken out at the end of the procedure. The seeds can also be implanted using a device that inserts them one by one at regular intervals.
Temporary brachytherapy: In this type of brachytherapy, a delivery device, such as a catheter, applicator, balloons or needle is used to deliver radiation to the tumor tissues. Temporary Brachytherapy involves the removal of implants after the treatment is done.
Based on the technique, brachytherapy can be:
High dose-rate (HDR): It involves the use of higher strength radioactive material. In this method, the doctor delivers the radiation over a period of 10 to 20 minutes in multiple session. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient procedure.
Low dose-rate (LDR): In this, a low dose of radiation is continuously delivered over a longer period of time. It may take several hours or days. Pulsed dose rate (PDR) is also a form of this treatment in which radiation is delivered in periodic pulses.