Japanese Multi-Institutional Feasibility Study of APBI Using Interstitial Brachytherapy

Abstract

device was used for both preand post-implant planning. Stranded seeds were created and intraoperatively placed in real time using the INSTANT (tm) device. A total dose of 25 Gy was delivered to the biopsy cavity with 1.0cm margin over the life of the isotope. The patients wore a shielded bra for six weeks after the procedure. Pre-planning utilized ultrasound and CT while post planning utilized CT only at one week. A second CT was performed 6 weeks after the seed implant to verify seed stability. Results: Cosmetic results were excellent with no evidence of needle marks by 6 weeks post procedure. Patient tolerance was exceptional, returning to work within 3 days of the procedure with minimal to no breast discomfort. No acute erythema and no radiation mysositis observed over the first 3 months after the procedure. Conclusions: Permanent Pd seed implantation as boost therapy appears to be safe. It is inexpensive and is well tolerated. A similar technique has been described by Pignol, et al for the sole local mangement of early stage breast cancer and the technique described in this paper could easily by adjusted to provide the sole local management for early stage breast cancer as well.