Endobronchial Radiation Patient Education

The Procedure

• A catheter is placed in your lung during a bronchoscopy - a procedure where the doctor looks into your lung with a special scope. You will be given medicine during this procedure to make you feel comfortable. This medicine may also make you sleepy.
• During the bronchoscopy, the blockage in the lung is found. A thin, hollow catheter is placed next to the blockage. The scope is removed and the catheter is left in place. The end of the catheter will be taped to the outside of your nose.
• After the catheter is in taped in place, you will be taken to the Cancer Care Institute. A nurse will check your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels. Medicine may be given to help control any coughing. X-rays will also be taken. Your physicist and doctor will use these films to help plan how your treatment is done.

The Schedule

• When the treatment planning is done, you will be taken to the treatment room. You will sit in a recliner during the treatment. A cable from the treatment machine will be attached to the catheter coming from your nose.
• When the treatment machine is turned on, a radioactive source the size of a piece of rice will travel through the catheter. It will give the tumor a high dose of radiation in a very short time.
• You will be alone in the room during the treatment but you will be monitored throughout the procedure on a TV camera and with an intercom.
• The treatment takes approximately five to 10 minutes and is completely painless.
• When the treatment is done, the radioactive source moves back into the machine. You are not radioactive after these treatments. You do not carry any radiation with you.
• Most patients receive three to four treatments over two days. You may or may not stay in the Hospital during this time.
• When all of the treatments have been given, the doctor will remove the catheter. You are not radioactive. No special precautions are needed.

If You Go Home With the Catheter In Place

• Your throat may be sore from the catheter. You may use Cepastat or Sucret lozenges to help.
• You may be given a prescription to help prevent coughing.
• Do not remove the tape from the catheter. If it loosens, put more tape on top of the tape that is already there.
• You will probably find it easier to eat soft foods while the catheter is in place.
• It is important to prevent any bending or kinking of the catheter.

Call the Doctor If You Have

• Severe chest pain
• Increasing shortness of breath
• Persistent cough
• Large amounts of bloody sputum
• Temperature over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
• Catheter is dislodged