Radioisotope Plaque Therapy is a medical procedure used to treat ocular melanoma. The correct phonetic transcription of this term is /ˌreɪdioʊˈaɪsətoʊp plæk ˈθɛrəpi/. The word 'radioisotope' refers to the use of radioactive molecules to treat cancer, while 'plaque' describes the small disk-shaped object placed onto the affected eye. 'Therapy' refers to the overall treatment procedure. The precise spelling of this term is important as it aids in accurate communication among medical professionals, reducing the possibility of errors and ensuring patient treatment is administered effectively.
Radioisotope plaque therapy is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly those affecting the eye or brain. It involves the use of a small, radioactive disc called a plaque, which is surgically implanted near the cancerous tumor. The plaque contains a radioisotope, typically iodine-125 or ruthenium-106, which emits radiation that destroys cancer cells.
The radioisotope plaque is precisely positioned and secured to the affected area, ensuring that the radiation is targeted at the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy surrounding tissues. The radioisotope emits radiation that penetrates the cancer cells, damaging their DNA and preventing them from multiplying. Over time, the cancer cells are unable to survive and are eventually eliminated by the body's immune system.
Radioisotope plaque therapy is often used when surgical removal of the tumor is difficult or risky, or when other treatments have not been effective. It offers several advantages, including its ability to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor, minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissues. The therapy is typically administered over the course of several days or weeks, and patients are closely monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness.
While radioisotope plaque therapy can be highly effective in treating certain types of cancer, it is not suitable for all patients or tumor types. It requires careful evaluation and consideration by a medical team specialized in radiation oncology. The therapy has increasingly become a valuable tool in the fight against cancer, offering a targeted and localized approach to treatment.