Objective To determine the effects and toxicity of interstitial brachythera
py using iridium-192 on brain malignant gliomas.
Methods Between January 1992 and January 1995, 56 patients with anaplastic
astrocytoma and glioblastoma multiforme were treated with stereotactic brac
hytherapy using temporary high-activity iridium-192 sources.
Results The median survival for patients receiving brachytherapy was 28 mon
ths. The survival rates at 1, 2, 3 years were 92.8%, 83.9% and 71.4% respec
tively.
Conclusions Brachytherapy may improve the control of local tumor and prolon
g the survival, when used in deep malignant brain gliomas, by temporary imp
lanted high doses of iridium-192 sources.