Have any of you heard of the new "seed" radiation? Can't remember what my rad onc called it, but she said they implant a seed into the area where the cancer was and radiate that area. Less side effects and less trauma to those who react poorly to rads, like I did. She said her partner went for the training last week and she goes next week.
Haven't heard anyone mention it, so just wondering.
Kitty
Kitty, it is called "Brachytherapy". I call it "dose dense" rads. I Knew about it, prior to having rads, two years ago, but my rad onc didn't do it. It was really new. I almost chose not to have rads, because I was going for mastectomy and recon. I had already had a lumpectomy, with unclean margins. Anyway, my rad onc told me that I should have the rads, even though I was having mastectomy, as it would keep it from coming back in the skin. I am so thankful, now, that I did it...esp after seeing the studies.
Skyy, I agree with you. I initially wanted mastectomy and asked for one...but I let my doc talk me into lumpectomy. Had to have the mastectomy, anyway...so I had one needless surgery. Always go with your gut instinct. Many women don't feel this way, but I feel the mastectomy is the best choice. Good luck in making your decision.
I asked the rad onc if it was the same as what they use for prostrate cancer and she said that is a one time implant, and this is a weekly implant. But works similarly.