When we compare the use of alpha radiation to gamma and beta radiation in brachytherapy, we can see there are some clear advantages:

 

1. Short-range irradiation

The alpha particles’ primary benefit is their ability to deliver radiation in a highly localized manner. ​

 

2. High potency to destroy cancer cells

Alpha radiation provides a greater potential for biologic damage compared to gamma and beta radiation, causing complex double strand breaks in the cancer’s cells DNA. This damage has proven to be more likely irreparable.[v]

 

3. No oxygen needed

Alpha and beta particles do not require the presence of oxygen for therapeutic effect as they cause direct damage.

 

4. Quick Clinical Outcome

Radium-224 decays within 2-4 weeks due to its short half-life of fewer than 4 days. This means that clinical results can be achieved relatively fast. 50 percent of the radiation is delivered within about 4 days, 95 percent in about 2 weeks and over 99 percent after 4 weeks. 

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