Comprehensive Cancer Center

Electronic Brachytherapy for Endometrial Cancer

Rhode Island Hospital is the first site in the world to treat endometrial cancer using the Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy System, which uses a miniaturized x-ray source to deliver localized and targeted radiation treatment to reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease.

Fewer Sessions, Better Outcomes

The new treatment requires fewer sessions than traditional radiation and eliminates the use of radioactive isotopes, resulting in better outcomes for patients, less exposure to radiation, and fewer side effects. Because the radiation is precisely targeted, it is safe for medical professionals to remain in the room with their patient during treatment with electronic brachytherapy.

Endometrial cancer, which affects approximately 40,000 women each year, is the most prevalent gynecologic cancer in the United States and is also the fourth most common invasive cancer. It is estimated that nearly two-thirds of these cases are eligible for treatment with electronic brachytherapy.

Leading-Edge Treatment

Yakub Puthawala, MD, a radiation oncologist with Rhode Island Hospital, says, “This treatment is revolutionary in the way we provide care to women with endometrial cancers. Vaginal brachytherapy for endometrial cancer is well accepted and we are excited to be the first cancer center to offer this wonderful new electronic treatment option.” He also notes, “We believe our patients will find it comforting that we can be in the room with them, unlike other forms of radiation treatment. It allows us to provide more compassionate care.”

For more information, call the Rhode Island Hospital radiation oncology department at 401-444-8311.

Read about electronic brathytherapy for breast cancer

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