DR. ROLIKA BANSAL

, Dr. SANTOSH G. HONAVAR

Abstract

Plaque brachytherapy is an evolving, effective globe and vision-sparing treatment modality for intraocular tumors by transscleral irradiation of tumor base by a radioactive implant. The American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) and Ophthalmic Oncology Task Force (OOTF) have established practice guidelines and standards of care for intra-ocular tumors.

This technique provides the advantage of focal radiation thus eliminating the damage to the adjacent structures, minimal periorbital tissue damage, absence of cosmetic disfigurement owing to lack of retarded bone growth as seen in external beam radiotherapy. Recent advances have led to shorter duration, reduced mortality and morbidity with excellent prognosis.

In this video, we shall display the concept of plaque brachytherapy, types of plaques, different radiations sources, planning dosimetry, calculations, target disease spectrum, surgical placement, post-radiation outcomes in terms of local tumor control and prognosis.