Brachytherapy

We're dedicated to advanced brachytherapy treatment focusing on your comfort and well-being.

Brachytherapy at OSF Cancer Institute

At OSF Cancer Institute, we offer state-of-the-art brachytherapy radiation treatment designed for your comfort and convenience. Our advanced technology uses a CT scanner on rails, which allows us to perform the procedure with advanced image guidance, even in an operating room setting.

All imaging and treatment resources are grouped together to facilitate the applicator placement, dose planning and dose delivery, meaning you won’t be transported farther than the next room over if your treatment requires it. Because your treatment is completed in the same place at the same time, treatment will take less time and be more like an outpatient environment. You’ll avoid the need for a hospital stay, so you can focus on healing faster.

What is Brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses a small radiation source to deliver radiation inside or near a tumor. This precise approach delivers high doses of radiation directly to the cancer cells while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Treatment is often done in one to six sessions and typically results in fewer side effects and shorter recovery times compared to traditional radiation therapy. At OSF Cancer Institute, our team customizes brachytherapy to fit your needs, offering a highly effective, personalized treatment option.

Cancers We Treat

Cancers most commonly treated with brachytherapy are endometrial, cervical, prostate cancer, and many other individual indications. Other uses like treatment of tumors in the chest and abdomen near critical radiosensitive structures are also possible.

Why Choose Us

Using an innovative rail system designed just for OSF HealthCare by General Electric, our brachytherapy suite is one of a few operating rooms equipped with CT, MRI and interventional radiology equipment. Patients will no longer have to be taken to multiple places in the hospital – all treatment and imaging equipment is located together. That means treatment is quicker and doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay.

In addition, you’ll have access to many oncology services which can support your treatment and healing of mind, body and spirit.

Your Care Team

When you receive care at OSF Cancer Institute, you have access to highly trained specialists at the very top of their field. They are committed to finding cures and enhancing your well-being.

Your care team includes radiation oncologists, who specialize in performing precise radiation treatment like brachytherapy.

What to Expect

First, you’ll meet with our expert team to discuss the procedure and address any questions or concerns.

On the day of your treatment, you’ll arrive and check in at OSF Cancer Institute. Once in your room, you’ll be comfortably sedated or have general anesthesia if indicated. While you’re sedated, a small radiation source – smaller than a grain of rice – is sealed in a flexible cable and programmed to travel in various applicators to deliver dose directly inside or near the tumor in a few minutes.

Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure that everything is conveniently located. After the treatment session is over, you’ll be awoken from sedation and monitored for a short length of time. Total time at OSF Cancer Institute depends on the nature of the treatment.

What are the benefits of brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a targeted cancer treatment that delivers high doses of radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This precise approach often results in fewer side effects, shorter treatment times and a quicker recovery. Your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you and your unique needs.

What are the risks of brachytherapy?

The risks of brachytherapy include localized pain, infection, bleeding or swelling at the treatment site. Serious complications are rare, but it's important to discuss potential risks with your care team before starting treatment.

What are the side effects of brachytherapy?

The side effects of brachytherapy vary depending on the treatment area and your overall health. Some common side effects include localized pain, swelling, fatigue and mild discomfort near the treatment site. In some cases, you may experience urinary, bowel or sexual side effects. These are typically temporary, but it's important to discuss any concerns with your care team.

Planning Your Travel

If you're traveling to Peoria for brachytherapy, we've got you covered. From ways to get here to finding the best local hotels, our comprehensive guide ensures your stay is as smooth and comfortable as possible so you can focus on what’s most important. Explore driving directions, parking information and nearby attractions to make the most of your time here.

Plan Your Stay

We’re Here for You

To request an appointment, call 1-844-OSF-4-HOPE, 1-844-673-4467, or fill out the form below.

Our team is available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Request an Appointment