Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital performs its first interstitial brachytherapy

BOTSWANA—Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital (SKMTH) in Botswana has marked a significant milestone in cancer care by successfully performing its inaugural interstitial gynecological brachytherapy procedure.

This groundbreaking achievement was led by Dr. Chiyapo, Senior Clinical Radiation Oncologist at SKMTH, alongside his dedicated team, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Radiation Protection Inspectorate (RPI).

Interstitial gynecological brachytherapy is a specialized form of cancer treatment where radioactive sources are placed directly into the tumor tissue.

Unlike traditional radiation therapies that target tumors from outside the body or near body cavities, this technique delivers radiation precisely inside the tumor.

This targeted approach improves local tumor control while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients with advanced or recurrent pelvic tumors that are not suitable for conventional intravaginal or intracavitary brachytherapy, where radioactive sources are placed near or just outside the tumor cavity.

By allowing direct placement of radiation sources within the tumor, interstitial brachytherapy enables personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s specific tumor size and location.

The successful implementation of this advanced treatment at SKMTH represents a landmark moment for Botswana’s healthcare system.

 It signifies the country’s growing capacity to provide cutting-edge cancer therapies locally, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.

This development is expected to improve survival rates and quality of life for many cancer patients in Botswana.

The Medical Physics Team at SKMTH expressed great excitement about this achievement.

They emphasized the hospital’s commitment to enhancing cancer care by investing not only in state-of-the-art equipment but also in training skilled personnel.

This ensures that every investment made translates into tangible medical benefits for patients.

Both the clinical and technical teams at SKMTH highlighted their dedication to maintaining high standards in cancer treatment.

With ongoing support from international partners such as the IAEA, the hospital aims to continue advancing its capabilities in radiation oncology.

The introduction of interstitial brachytherapy is just one step toward offering more effective, individualized treatment options that reduce side effects and improve outcomes.

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