HDR

HDR or High Dose Rate is a type of radiation therapy used in the treatment of various types of cancer. This therapy involves the delivery of a high dose of radiation to a specific area of the body in a short amount of time.

Overview

HDR is a form of brachytherapy, a type of radiation therapy where a radiation source is placed inside or next to the area requiring treatment. HDR brachytherapy is a modern and more advanced form of brachytherapy. Unlike low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy, where the radiation source stays in place for several days, in HDR brachytherapy, the radiation source is removed after each treatment session.

Procedure

During HDR brachytherapy, a high intensity radiation source is passed through small plastic tubes called catheters that are inserted into the body. The radiation source is computer-controlled to stop at pre-determined points along the catheter to deliver the radiation dose. The treatment is usually given in a series of sessions, which can range from a single session to multiple sessions over several days or weeks.

Uses

HDR brachytherapy is used to treat many types of cancer, including prostate cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and lung cancer. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or external beam radiation therapy.

Benefits and Risks

The benefits of HDR brachytherapy include the ability to deliver a high dose of radiation to a specific area, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding healthy tissue. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects, which can include pain, swelling, infection, and changes to normal body functions.

See Also

• Radiation therapy
• Brachytherapy
• Cancer treatment

HDR Resources
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