MammoSite 5-Day Targeted Radiation Therapy simplifies breast cancer treatment…
1. Placement
After the breast cancer tumor is removed (lumpectomy), a small, soft MammoSite balloon attached to a thin tube (catheter) is placed inside the lumpectomy cavity through a small incision in the breast.
- The balloon is “inflated” with saline solution so that it fits snugly into the cavity. It remains inflated during the 5-day treatment.
- A small portion of the catheter remains outside the breast; this is secured to a cushioned gauze pad to prevent movement of the catheter.
2. Treatment
- Treatment is planned by a radiation oncologist who will take images of the MammoSite balloon catheter in the breast and determine the amount of radiation needed.
- During therapy, the portion of the catheter that remains outside your breast is connected to a computer-controlled High Dose Rate (HDR) machine that inserts a radiation “seed” to deliver the therapy.
- Once therapy is complete, the seed is removed, the catheter is unplugged, and you will be free to return to your normal daily activities.
- No radiation remains inside your breast in between treatments.
3. Removal
- After 5 days of treatment, your MammoSite balloon catheter will be removed, usually on the last day of treatment.
- The balloon is gently removed through the same incision made to place it.
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