Internal radiotherapy

Internal radiotherapy means having radiation treatment from inside the body. It is a treatment for some types of cancer. 

There are different types of internal radiotherapy, such as radioactive liquid treatments or brachytherapy (radioactive implants). The type you have depends on your cancer type and where it is in your body.

What is internal radiotherapy?

Internal radiotherapy gives radiation from inside the body. There are different types of internal radiotherapy, such as radioactive liquid treatments or brachytherapy (radioactive implants). 

Internal radiotherapy safety

You need to follow some safety procedures when you have internal radiotherapy. This is to protect others from being exposed to radiation.

Brachytherapy (radioactive implant treatment)

A sealed radioactive material is put into or very close to the cancer. This may be left in for several minutes or days. Some are left in permanently.

Radioactive liquid treatment

Radioactive liquid treatments, such as radioactive iodine, can be given as a drink or capsules, or as an injection. Find out about the different types.

Follow up after radiotherapy

You might have regular follow up appointments at the radiotherapy department or at your original hospital. Your treatment team will let you know. 

Last reviewed: 
16 Nov 2023
Next review due: 
16 Nov 2023