What is electronic surface brachytherapy?
Electronic brachytherapy is a type of radiotherapy applied directly to a cancerous site, helping to spare healthy tissue and organs. Electronic brachytherapy in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers offers several advantages over traditional treatment, such as Mohs surgery.
Is brachytherapy used for skin cancer?
Skin HDR Brachytherapy is a radiotherapy technique which is performed for certain types of basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers. It provides an effective alternative treatment with minimal side effects for selected patients and those who cannot be treated surgically.
What are the two types of brachytherapy?
There are two main forms of brachytherapy – intracavitary treatment and interstitial treatment. With intracavitary treatment, the radioactive sources are put into a space near where the tumor is located, such as the cervix, the vagina or the windpipe.
What is CPT code 0394T?
CPT code 0394T should be used exclusively to report HDR electronic skin surface brachytherapy treatment. CPT code 0395T should be used to report HDR electronic brachytherapy for treating sites other than skin (interstitial or intracavitary).
Which isotope is used for the treatment of skin cancer?
The topical therapy for basal cell carcinoma uses rhenium-188, a radioactive isotope, to kill tumor cells in half an hour while leaving the skin around it unharmed, the Telegraph reports.
What equipment is used in brachytherapy?
Imaging equipment, such as a CT scanner or ultrasound machine, may be used to ensure the device is placed in the most effective location. Radiation inserted into body tissue. During interstitial brachytherapy, devices containing radioactive material are placed within body tissue, such as within the breast or prostate.
What are the risks of brachytherapy?
Side effects of brachytherapy can include swelling, bruising, bleeding, or pain and discomfort at the spot where the radiation was delivered. Brachytherapy used for gynecologic cancers or prostate cancer can lead to short-term urinary symptoms, including incontinence or pain on urination.