Interstitial therapy using non-absorbable (192Ir nylon ribbon) and absorbable (125I ''Vicryl'') suturing techniques

Permanent and removable interstitial implantation techniques for neoplasm radiotherapy using absorbable and unabsorbable sutures are described. Most of these techniques can be performed in the clinic easily and quickly with basic instruments: needle holder, needle book, and hemoclips. Specifically, 192Ir (74.4 day half life, 300 to 610 keV, and 6.0 cm hvl in tissue) nylon ribbon and 125I (60 day half life, 27 to 35 keV, and 2.0 cm hvl in tissue) Vicryl sutures are described. A major advantage of the 125I over the 192Ir seed (other than the fact that it can be permanently implanted and needs less radiation protection) is that the patient does not remain highly radioactive for as long a period due to the extremely low 125I energy and may be allowed to leave the hospital. Both nuclides have the advantage of a long shelf life, making their use practical and economically feasible. (auth)