Brachytherapy: A Modern Method of Cancer Treatment in Israel

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy in which radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumor. Unlike traditional (external beam) radiation therapy, where the radiation passes through healthy tissues, brachytherapy delivers radiation almost exclusively to malignant cells. This allows for the use of high doses of radiation in a limited area, reducing the risk of side effects affecting the skin, mucous membranes, and internal organs.

The main difference lies in the method of delivering radiation. In conventional therapy, radiation beams are directed from outside the body, inevitably affecting healthy tissues. In brachytherapy, the radioactive source is placed inside the body or in close proximity to the tumor, which increases the precision of treatment and reduces the impact on surrounding organs. For example, in cases of prostate cancer, brachytherapy helps preserve potency and urinary control—outcomes that can be difficult to achieve with traditional therapy.

Additionally, brachytherapy often requires fewer treatment sessions; sometimes, a single procedure is sufficient, whereas external beam therapy may last for several weeks. However, this method demands precise planning, a high level of expertise, and advanced technical equipment, which means it is not available in all medical facilities.

The benefits of this method include:

• Localized exposure
  Radiation targets mainly the tumor, sparing surrounding tissues.

• Shorter treatment duration
  Compared to external beam radiotherapy, a course of brachytherapy is often quicker.

• Fewer side effects
  Due to the precision of the technique, patients generally tolerate treatment better.

• Outpatient feasibility
  In some cases, patients can leave the clinic on the same day as the procedure.

However, despite its advantages, brachytherapy is not suitable for all patients. The method is most effective for localized tumors, where the tumor boundaries are clearly defined and there are no distant metastases. The anatomical accessibility of the tumor is also crucial—not all tumor locations allow for the safe and accurate placement of the radiation source.

There are also medical limitations: for instance, brachytherapy may be contraindicated in cases of certain blood disorders, inflammatory conditions, or the presence of specific implants. It is also not always effective for large or rapidly spreading tumors—in such cases, systemic therapy or external beam radiation is often preferred.

Brachytherapy is used to treat a range of oncological conditions.

The primary indications include:

• Prostate cancer – the most common indication, particularly in localized forms;

• Cervical cancer – brachytherapy is part of international treatment protocols;

• Vaginal, endometrial, and rectal cancers – when tumors are localized;

• Esophageal, bronchial, and head and neck cancers – for palliative purposes to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life;

• Tumor recurrences after external radiation – when re-irradiation is not possible due to the risk of complications.

At the Ichilov Oncology Clinic in Israel, the decision to use brachytherapy is made on an individual basis, using modern imaging technologies and a multidisciplinary approach.

Israel is one of the world’s leading countries in cancer care, applying the most advanced treatment protocols. Brachytherapy is available at top clinics, such as the Ichilov Oncology Center in Tel Aviv. International standards of care are followed, and the oncology team includes specialists with many years of experience, particularly in radiation therapy.

Ichilov’s oncology department is equipped with high-precision devices that enable individualized radiation dose calculations for each patient. This is especially critical for complex or sensitive tumor locations, such as the prostate or head and neck areas.

• A multidisciplinary team—including oncologists, radiation therapists, surgeons, and diagnostic experts—selects the most appropriate treatment method.

• Brachytherapy at Ichilov may be used as a standalone treatment or as part of a comprehensive therapeutic approach.

• Patients receive not only medical care but full support at every stage—from initial consultation to rehabilitation.
  

If brachytherapy is recommended for you, it is important to:

• Clarify the type and stage of the tumor;

• Undergo the required diagnostic tests, including MRI or PET-CT;

• Discuss potential risks and expected outcomes with your physician.

At Ichilov Oncology Hospital, thanks to the medical tourism department, patients receive full treatment information in their native language. The therapy plan is created individually, taking into account both the patient’s general condition and personal preferences.
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Ichilov Hospital in Israel offers patients top-level treatment, where advanced technology is combined with the expertise of physicians and a personalized approach to each individual. If you are facing a decision about your treatment options, brachytherapy is well worth considering as one of the most reliable choices.