Mammocite or Brachytherapy

[Under Forty Pam]

I was just diagnosed this week with early stage breast cancer, my Dr. told me I was a good candidate for an alternative form of radiation since it is small, ductal insitu, and I am 39 yrs old.  I have been internet reading mixed messages on this new treatment but it promising to me, possibly enough to try it but I don't want to make a bad decision.  Normal radiation is 5-6 weeks and 5 days a week.  This type is 5 days, twice a day and then I would be done.  I have been weighing the pros and cons of traditional and experimental and need some advice and help to do what is best.  Has anyone had this done, is it too experimental still?  HELP and CONFUSED....

[Under Forty Pam]

It is covered, it was approved by the FDA in 2002.  I am looking to see if anyone has tried it or knows anyone that has tried it.

[Avidhiker]

Did you check with your insurance company to see if they will cover Brachytherapy as opposed to Mammocite?  Radiation is VERY EXPENSIVE.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Under Forty Pam:  There is still quite a bit of controversy surrounding mammosite.  Depending on the radiation oncologist, you will hear differing opinions.  It has not been compared head to head with traditional radiation therapy in any clinical trials, so it is difficult to determine long term effectiveness and side effects as compared with the more traditional methods.  You might benefit from a second opinion from a radiation oncologist (preferrably one at a major teaching hospital) who may be on the cutting edge and can give you more information with which to make your decision.