What is a MammoSite?

(MA-moh-site) A system used to deliver internal radiation therapy to breast cancer patients after surgery to remove their cancer. MammoSite targets only the part of the breast where the cancer was found.

Is MammoSite radioactive?

The catheter is disconnected from the machine, and you are free to resume your regular activities. No radiation remains in your body in between treatments. After completing five days of treatment, the MammoSite balloon catheter is removed.

Is internal radiation therapy painful?

Internal radiation is also called brachytherapy. A radioactive implant is put inside the body in or near the tumor. Getting the implant placed is usually a painless procedure.

Can you have 2 radiation treatments a day?

The twice-daily treatment is known as hyperfractionated radiotherapy. By splitting the daily treatment in two portions, a higher and more effective dose can be given to patients. The researchers hope that this can be achieved without increasing side effects.

How long can you wait to have radiation after surgery?

Post-surgical radiotherapy is designed to destroy remaining cancer cells following the removal of a localized breast tumor. Punglia said four to six weeks after surgery is widely viewed as a safe interval for beginning radiotherapy, which typically is administered five days a week for six weeks.

How long does it take to recover from radiation treatment?

Most side effects generally go away within a few weeks to 2 months of finishing treatment. But some side effects may continue after treatment is over because it takes time for healthy cells to recover from the effects of radiation therapy. Late side effects can happen months or years after treatment.

How long does it take to recover from chemo and radiation?

Recovery times from chemotherapy vary with each person. Remember that chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that will affect your entire body. You should plan on one to three months of recovery time per each standard dose of chemotherapy once your treatments are over.

How does radiation therapy effect the body?

Effects of high-dose radiation therapies occur faster than those caused by low-dose exposure. Lymphocytes may be destroyed within 48 hours after therapy. For several weeks after exposure, more white cells die, leaving the body vulnerable to infection. Other side effects may include infection, fever and bleeding.