What type of brachytherapy is 125I primarily used for?

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The use of 125I (Iodine-125) in brachytherapy is predominantly associated with permanent implants. In this technique, small radioactive seeds are implanted directly into or near a tumor, delivering localized radiation over a period of time without the necessity of removing the source after treatment. This method is particularly advantageous for certain types of cancers, such as prostate cancer, where high doses of radiation can be delivered directly to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Permanent implants using 125I are designed to provide a continuous radiation source that remains in the body, which allows for a more sustained radiation dose to effectively eradicate cancer cells while reducing potential complications associated with other types of radiation treatment. The longevity and low energy emissions of Iodine-125 make it especially suitable for this application, contributing to the controlled and effective treatment of tumors in appropriate clinical scenarios.

In contrast, other types of brachytherapy, such as temporary implants or intracavitary brachytherapy, utilize different radioisotopes and techniques that involve either placing radiation sources temporarily within the body or utilizing a source within a cavity. Therefore, these options are not aligned with the primary use of 125I in clinical practice.

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