Beta-emitting implants in radiotherapy

A beta-emitting radioactive implant can be placed inside or close to a tumour. The implant emits beta particles, delivering ionising radiation directly to the cancerous tissue.

The radiation damages cells, including their DNA. This damage can stop cancer cells from dividing or cause them to die.

Beta particles have a limited range in tissue, so much of the radiation dose is concentrated near the implant. This reduces exposure of healthy tissue farther away, but healthy cells close to the implant can still be damaged.