Brachytherapy in comprehensive treatment of breast cancer

Based on the data analysis to define the role and function of brachytherapy in comprehensive treatment of breast cancer, indications and contraindications to brachytherapy, appropriate ways of effectiveness planning and control.Materials and methods. The following scientometric databases were used: Google Scholar, Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI), Index Copernicus (IC), Bibliometrics of Ukrainian Science, Scholarometer, Microsoft Academic Search). The search was restricted to the studies published within the 1983-2020 time-frame.Results. The analysis of irradiated volume study EORTC (unpublished data indicate a real decrease in the amount of irradiation 3 times in patients who received intra-tissue boost compared with those who used a remote boost). Despite the reduction of exposure, the incidence of local recurrence is not increased.Conclusions. The brachytherapy method makes it possible to reduce radiation exposure to surrounding tissues and to increase the total focal dose on the tumor mass. Along with that, following the results of observing local recurrence frequency and cosmetic effect, the effectiveness of internal tissue exposure in comprehensive treatment at early stages of breast cancer has been proved. (author)