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The Department of Radiation Oncology has been providing Intravascular Brachytherapy (IVBT) treatments since 2001. The procedure, performed in conjunction with a cardiologist, is used to prevent coronary arterial restenosis and is performed in the Cardiac Cath-Labs at Crouse and St. Joseph’s Hospitals. IVBT is used for patients who have re-blockage of an artery where a stent has been placed. The blockage usually occurs due to scar tissue in the artery at the site of the stent placement. Radiation in the form of a tiny seed slows scar tissue growth and aims to prevent a complete re-blockage of the artery. The radioactive source, Strontium-90 is passed through a catheter to the affected site where it dwells for a calculated time, emitting the prescribed dose of radiation.
This unique collaboration of services between Cardiology and Radiation Oncology has arisen based on participation in a Clinical Trial in 1999.
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