The use of radioactive cobalt in the treatment of carcinoma of the cervix.

Abstract After activation in the nuclear reactor, cobalt forms a relatively stable isotope with a soft beta ray which requires minimal shielding, and has a homogenous gamma irradiation. It can be machined to any desired shape prior to activation, and constitutes an easily handled radioactive material. Advantage has been taken of these qualities in the application of cobalt-60 to the treatment of the forty patients with carcinoma of the cervix here reported. Fine caliber needles have been used which can be fashioned to the desired length and strength, and template guides have been introduced to provide precision of needle placement. These factors tend to increase the safety of multiple-source intrapelvic irradiation, and a method is offered whereby an evenly distributed pattern of radiation can be designed to fit the patient's pelvis and the spread of her lesion.