Brachytherapy is a critical component to the optimal management of locally advanced cervical cancer. However, due to many factors, its use was declining in the 2010s and when brachytherapy is omitted, patient outcomes are worse. This educational course will discuss best practices in cervical cancer brachytherapy. The intent is for a broad-based overview of the essentials of brachytherapy. Throughout the course we will highlight the most recent evidence and evolution of modern brachytherapy. We will begin with a discussion of patient selection and the various techniques to consider in diverse situations (Dr. Taunk). Next, we will go through the procedure itself and explore aspects related to ideal applicator/needle placement (Dr. Glaser). Then, treatment planning considerations will be detailed with a focus on how physicists and physicians function as a team to create the best possible plan in an efficient manner (Dr. Kim). Lastly, we will look at the patient experience including ways to make what sounds like a scary treatment as well-tolerated as possible (Dr. Rivera). Our goal is to provide tools and insights that would be of value to a diverse audience so that whether an individual is well-seasoned in brachytherapy, just starting, or does not perform brachytherapy they will be able learn and incorporate new insights into their practice. 

Topics:

1. Perfecting Patient Selection: Building a Practice Network and Selecting Patients for Advanced Care; Q and A
   Neil K. Taunk, MD, MS, MSCTS
2. Performing a High-Quality Implant - Procedural Tips, Tricks, and Pitfalls
   Scott M. Glaser, MD
3. Treatment Planning - The Physicist and Physician Team
   Hayeon Kim, PhD
4. Optimizing the Brachytherapy Patient Experience - Minimizing Discomfort, Side Effects, Frustrations, and Recurrences; Q and A
   Amanda Rivera, MD

This activity is available from November 14, 2023, through 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on November 13, 2025. 

This activity was originally recorded at the 2023 ASTRO Annual Meeting.