Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre and Research Institute is one of the premier institutes in Kolkata. Established in 1974, it has committed itself to affordable cancer treatment and relentless research. From time to time, SGCCRI has installed many cutting-edge technology and tools to improve the outcome, minimize the risk and better the quality of life for the cancer patients. Recently, it has installed a HDR afterloading brachytherapy system. It is the only cancer institute in India to have set up the machine.
What is Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy is a part of cancer treatment. It is applied to treat malignant and some benign tumors by concentrating the ionized radiation (for example, electrons, protons, neutrons, X-rays, gamma rays) on the cancerous cells.
Radiotherapy can be classified as Telethereapy and Brachytherapy. Teletherapy is administered through a linear accelerator or telecobalt unit.
Brachytherapy
In brachytherapy, the source of radiation is set either within the tumour or very close to the patient’s body to allow focused radiation. Due to proximity of the radiation source to the body, only a few doses can eliminate cancer cells with minimal damages to the neighbouring healthy cells.
Brachytherapy, as a part of post-operative and radical cancer treatment protocols, is used to treat different types of cancers:
- Breast cancer
- Head-neck cancer
- Skin cancer
- Soft-tissue sarcoma
- Uterine cancer
HDR brachytherapy involves an advanced mechanism that allows remote after-loading and computerised image-based delivery planning. The high dose rate ensures quick delivery and enables the procedure to be completed as a day-care treatment. In remote after-loading system, the clinicians insert hollow applicators in the patient’s body and later, radiation source is loaded into the tools. The procedure does not expose doctor, nurse and other staff to harmful radiation
Flexitron, the after-loading machine, is manufactured by Sweden’s Elekta AB. This equipment uses a long-lasting Cobalt-60 source and is, therefore, a cost-excellent solution. Unlike Iridium-192 source, Cobal-60 needs no frequent changing every 3-4 months.
Cervical cancer is the commonest gynaecological cancer in Indian women, mostly affecting the underprivileged population in rural India. Brachytherapy is a very powerful mechanism to treat cervical cancer and give affected woman a long and better quality of life.
Final Words
SGCCRI is known for their cost-effective cancer treatment in Kolkata and best care for the cancer patients. With advancement of medical technology, they have brought more sophisticated and successful equipment to the centre. Their intention is obvious – to extend the lifespan and improve quality of life for the cancer patients.