Study of forty-three patients treated with HDR or LDR pre-operative brachytherapy for IIb cervical cancer

We have studied 43 patients with IIB cervical cancer who were underwent to pre-operatory treatment. The biological effects between both modalities of treatment were analysed. All patient received EBRT to a total dose of 45Gy - fx 1,8Gy plus brachytherapy. EBRT was performed with a Linac 4MV, in box arrangement. The Brachytherapy was performed through Fletcher Colpostats in association with intrauterine tamdens, in both arms. Brachytherapy starts in HDR group after ten days of the beginning of the treatment. The scheme was the following: 1-HDR - 2 weekly insertions of 6,0Gy at point A 2-LDR - one insertiont of 15Gy at point A. Four to six weeks after the end of the irradiation course, we performed the surgical procedure with Total Hysterectomy and Salpingoforectomy (Piver second level). Results: - HDR - No residual tumor - 21/35 -60% Residual tumor - 14/35 - 40% Negative linph. - 29/35 - 83% Positive linph.- 05/35 - 14% LDR - No residual tumor - 05/08 - 62.5% Residual tumor - 03/08 - 37.5% Negative linph. - 06/08 - 75% Positive linph. - 02/08 - 25% Conclusions - This avaliation showed that local control and survival in HDR and LDR are similar. Treatment with HDR devices are safer for patients and staff, with no need of anesthesia