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Review
. 2023 Jan-Feb;22(1):15-20.
doi: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.10.004. Epub 2022 Dec 8.

Underutilization of brachytherapy for cervical cancer in the United States

Casey W Williamson  1 , Jyoti Mayadev  2
Affiliations
Review

Underutilization of brachytherapy for cervical cancer in the United States

Casey W Williamson et al. Brachytherapy. 2023 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Brachytherapy is a critical component of the definitive management of cervical cancer and allows for the safe delivery of about half of the total effective radiation dose needed for optimal outcomes. Moreover, the dose distribution of brachytherapy is highly conformal, allowing for a therapeutic index currently unmatched by alternative techniques. However, a modern brachytherapy program requires special equipment, infrastructure, and procedural expertise. Unfortunately, multiple lines of evidence suggest that brachytherapy is currently underutilized in the United States. In this review, we examine the importance of brachytherapy, contemporary recommendations, and avenues for growth.

Keywords: Brachytherapy; Cervical cancer; Radiation therapy; Utilization.

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