Hi Marge,
Brachytherapy is an alternative way to get radiation directly to the tumor site by putting radioactive material in the form of seeds or pellets inside or close to the tumor. It is also called radiation implants, it gives a high dose of radiation to the tumor in a very short period of time. While very little goes to healthy tissues around the tumor.

In my case, the tumor was localized on the left lateral of the tongue, luckily the cancer has not effected any of the lymph nodes. I had 25 (5 weeks) treatments of outer radiation, prior to having the implants put in. The implant procedure required a weeks stay in the hospital, within a couple of hrs. of them putting the implants in they were injecting the radiation into the catheters. The catheters stayed in place for 3 days. I will be honest the removal of the implants were painful but the pain short lived. I still have some swelling of the tongue tissue but they have told me that eventually it will subside.

I also have photos of myself with the implants; If interested I can email them to you.

I had my procedure done at the The Ohio State University / James Cancer Hospital in columbus Ohio. by Dr. Subir Nag, I have included some of his references/recommended reading; which may be helpful

Nag S. High Dse RAte Bracytherapy: a Textbook. Armonk, NY: Futura Publishing Co. 1994

Nag S. Principles and Practice of Brachytherapy.Armonk, NY: Futura Publishing Co. 1997

American Brachytherapy Society, 820 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook, IL 60523 Tel: 630-368-7896

Let me know if I can be of more help. God Bless.