What is MammoSite 5-Day Targeted Radiation Therapy?

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What is MammoSite 5-Day Targeted Radiation Therapy?
Mammosite.com

How It Works
View a demonstration of this procedure.

MammoSite 5-Day Targeted Radiation Therapy simplifies breast cancer treatment…

1. Placement


After the breast cancer tumor is removed (lumpectomy), a small, soft MammoSite balloon attached to a thin tube (catheter) is placed inside the lumpectomy cavity through a small incision in the breast.

The balloon is “inflated” with saline solution so that it fits snugly into the cavity. It remains inflated during the 5-day treatment.
A small portion of the catheter remains outside the breast; this is secured to a cushioned gauze pad to prevent movement of the catheter.
2. Treatment


Treatment is planned by a radiation oncologist who will take images of the MammoSite balloon catheter in the breast and determine the amount of radiation needed.
During therapy, the portion of the catheter that remains outside your breast is connected to a computer-controlled High Dose Rate (HDR) machine that inserts a radiation “seed” to deliver the therapy.
Once therapy is complete, the seed is removed, the catheter is unplugged, and you will be free to return to your normal daily activities.
No radiation remains inside your breast in between treatments.
3. Removal


After 5 days of treatment, your MammoSite balloon catheter will be removed, usually on the last day of treatment.
The balloon is gently removed through the same incision made to place it.

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