Objective: To determine the effects and toxicity of interstitial brachytherapy 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 brachytherapy using temporary high-activity iridium-192 sources.
Results: The median survival for patients receiving brachytherapy was 28 months. The survival rates at 1, 2, 3 years were 92.8%, 83.9% and 71.4% respectively.
Conclusions: Brachytherapy may improve the control of local tumor and prolong the survival, when used in deep malignant brain gliomas, by temporary implanted high doses of iridium-192 sources.