 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 26: The Department of Radiation Oncology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jammu continues to advance cancer care in the region through the adoption of cutting-edge and patient-centric treatment modalities. With a focus on precision oncology and organ preservation, the department has been steadily expanding its capabilities in advanced radiation techniques. In line with this commitment, the team has successfully performed bilateral interstitial brachytherapy in a female patient diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer, following breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and completion of adjuvant chemotherapy.
The patient, a diagnosed case of synchronous bilateral breast malignancy, had previously undergone breast-conserving surgery for both breasts and subsequently received adjuvant systemic chemotherapy. In view of the need for precise local radiation boost while preserving cosmetic outcomes and minimizing dose to surrounding normal tissues, she was planned for bilateral interstitial brachytherapy. This technique allowed highly conformal dose delivery directly to the tumor beds on both sides, ensuring optimal target coverage with reduced toxicity.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first-ever bilateral breast interstitial brachytherapy procedure performed at AIIMS Jammu, and also the first of its kind in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
The procedure was carried out under the expert guidance of Dr. D. N. Sharma, Executive Director and CEO, AIIMS Jammu, a pioneer in the field of brachytherapy, along with the dedicated team comprising Prof (Dr). Shabab Lalit Angurana, Head of Department, Radiation Oncology, AIIMS Jammu, and Dr Girija Priya Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiotherapy, AIIMS Jammu.
The anesthesia team led by Dr. Raksha Kundal, Associate Professor, Department of Anaesthesiology, AIIMS Jammu and medical physicists Shivam and Monika.
Interstitial brachytherapy is a technically demanding modality that requires meticulous planning, imaging guidance, and precise dose delivery. Its successful implementation highlights the growing capabilities and commitment of AIIMS Jammu in providing state-of-the-art oncological care.
This milestone reflects not only the advancement of cancer care infrastructure at AIIMS Jammu but also a broader shift toward accessible, high-precision oncology services within the region. By bringing such sophisticated treatment modalities closer to patients, it reduces the need for travel to distant centers and strengthens trust in local healthcare systems. The successful execution of this procedure sets a strong precedent for future innovations and reinforces a sustained commitment to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered cancer care in Jammu & Kashmir. |
