Cf-252 neutron brachytherapy of short duration for bulky neck tumors

Cf-252 (Cf) neutron brachytherapy (NT) was tested for treatment of bulky neck tumor masses in 13 patients. Complete regression (CR) or partial regression (PR) was obtained in 100% and local control in 85%. Tumors cleared rapidly and completely after an implant therapy of 4-7 hrs. Short duration Cf-NT can produce rapid and complete clearance of bulky tumors. Efficacy was independent of the implant time duration and without unusual adverse side effects or complications. The median survival time (MST) of patients dying of their disease was 6.8 months and 48% of treated patients survived greater than 18 months despite their advanced diseased status.