Abstract: A replaceable cartridge can be used in a system for providing a radiation source for brachytherapy. The cartridge configured to be received into a base defining a receptacle. The cartridge can comprise a radiation source. A shield can be configured to receive the radiation source. A guidewire can be coupled to the radiation source. At least one motor can be configured to move the guidewire to thereby adjust the position of the radiation source.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for a rotating shield brachytherapy device. As disclosed herein, the rotating shield brachytherapy (RSBT) apparatus may comprise a radiation source, a drive assembly, a catheter, and an applicator. The applicator can have an outer surface and opposed proximal and distal end portions and a longitudinal axis extending along a length of the catheter. The distal end portion of the catheter can comprise one or more radiation shields and is configured to receive the radiation source. The drive assembly can be configured to engage the proximal end portion of the catheter to selectively rotate the catheter about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A rotating shield brachytherapy (RSBT) apparatus includes a radiation source, at least one applicator, a catheter, a catheter drive assembly, a robotic positioning system, and a connection system. The applicator(s) is configured to be inserted or implanted into a patient. A distal end portion of the catheter has at least one radiation shield and is configured to receive a wire-mounted radiation source. The catheter drive assembly causes helical motion of the catheter and engages the proximal end portion of the catheter to selectively rotate the catheter about a longitudinal axis. The robotic positioning system aligns the catheter drive assembly, in both position and angular orientation at a modifiable rate, with the applicator(s), or to any programmed point in space. The connection system couples the catheter drive assembly to the applicator(s), and further decouple the catheter drive from the applicator(s).

Abstract: A method can comprise irradiating an active element having an initial total activity between zero and thirty curies of ytterbium-169 and a volume between about two cubic millimeters and about four cubic millimeters. Irradiation can be ceased before the active element surpasses a total activity of thirty curies and an activity concentration of ten curies per cubic millimeter.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for a rotating shield brachytherapy device. As disclosed herein, the rotating shield brachytherapy (RSBT) apparatus may comprise a radiation source, a drive assembly, a catheter, and an applicator. The applicator can have an outer surface and opposed proximal and distal end portions and a longitudinal axis extending along a length of the catheter. The distal end portion of the catheter can comprise one or more radiation shields and is configured to receive the radiation source. The drive assembly can be configured to engage the proximal end portion of the catheter to selectively rotate the catheter about the longitudinal axis.