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When it comes to radiation therapy, it's completely normal to feel anxious and unsure about what's next, especially when you're seeking advanced care.
High-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy is a modern type of internal radiation therapy offered at many Florida treatment centers and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
If your doctor has recommended HDR brachytherapy, this guide will clearly outline what to expect—from preparation through recovery—so you can feel confident and informed at each step. Our commitment is to provide care that makes you feel supported, comfortable, and treated like family every step of the way.
HDR brachytherapy is a targeted internal radiation treatment where a tiny radioactive source is temporarily placed next to the tumor.
This source delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the cancer cells, usually within just a few minutes. Afterward, the source is removed, which means treatments are precise and brief.
You may have concerns about comfort or lengthy hospital stays. Fortunately, discomfort during the applicator placement is typically brief and carefully managed by our clinical team. Most patients return home the same day, making HDR brachytherapy an effective, convenient option for many people.
The specific number of HDR treatment sessions depends on your cancer diagnosis. Cervical and endometrial (vaginal cuff) treatments usually involve multiple brief visits over a few weeks.
Prostate cancer treatments often require only one or two sessions scheduled within a day or two. Many patients return home the same day, making treatment manageable within daily routines.
During your first visit, we'll discuss your diagnosis, treatment goals, and medical history in detail. We'll explain how HDR brachytherapy compares to other treatments and determine if it's right for you.
If HDR is recommended, we'll provide clear instructions for preparation and schedule your upcoming visits.
At this appointment, we'll perform a physical exam, review your medical imaging, and discuss anesthesia options to ensure you're comfortable during treatment.
We'll also clarify any medications you need to pause temporarily and confirm arrangements for transportation and caregiver support on the procedure day.
On treatment day, you'll arrive at our facility, and our team will review your consent and perform essential safety checks. Using imaging guidance, a specialist will carefully place the applicator inside or next to the tumor.
You'll have time afterward to rest comfortably under supervision as we confirm everything is properly positioned.
After placement, our physics team creates a precise, personalized 3D treatment plan. This plan shapes the radiation dose specifically to the cancer while protecting nearby healthy tissue.
Your radiation oncologist reviews and approves this plan, ensuring strict safety guidelines are followed.
During the HDR session itself, you'll be comfortably positioned and connected through small tubes to a machine called an afterloader, which delivers the radiation.
You won't feel the radiation treatment itself, and our therapists will remain nearby at all times. Once the brief session is complete, the radioactive source is carefully removed, and the applicator may be removed depending on your treatment plan.
Immediately afterward, you'll rest briefly in our recovery area, where our team monitors your comfort and condition. Before you head home, we'll discuss detailed site care instructions and activity limitations for the next few days.
You'll also receive clear guidelines on when to contact us urgently, such as if you experience:
We'll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing and address any questions or concerns. When appropriate, these follow-ups may be conducted via telehealth to minimize travel and maximize convenience.
We'll also coordinate any additional imaging or laboratory tests needed and communicate closely with your other healthcare providers.
HDR brachytherapy can be used on its own or combined with other treatments, depending on your specific cancer type, stage, and treatment goals. In some cases, surgery may be performed to remove the tumor first, followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
External beam radiation therapy—radiation delivered from outside your body—may also complement HDR brachytherapy. Additionally, your treatment plan may include medical oncology approaches like chemotherapy or hormone therapy if indicated by your cancer type and stage.
Every treatment decision at ACTC is personalized to align with your individual health needs and objectives.
Throughout your treatment journey, our care team is here to support you, help coordinate appointments, and answer questions as they arise. Our concierge-style approach focuses on attentive, personalized care so you feel informed, supported, and confident at every step.
To help your appointments proceed smoothly, we recommend bringing your medication list, previous medical imaging, and insurance information.
Practical tips to simplify your visits include:
Many patients experience mild cramping or discomfort after applicator placement, which typically improves within a day or two. Over-the-counter pain medications are usually enough to manage this discomfort.
Side effects generally relate directly to the treatment area—for example, urinary urgency after prostate HDR treatment or minor spotting following pelvic treatments. Serious side effects are uncommon, but our care team remains available to support you around the clock.
Key safety points we always prioritize:
When you feel ready to move forward or have more questions, our team is here to support you. We'll carefully review your medical records, clarify your options, and help determine the next best steps for your care.
Call 352-345-4565 or book an appointment now.
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Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
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15211 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville, Florida 34613