[An afterloading procedure using 137Cs needle for tongue carcinoma]

We have developed an afterloading procedure using Cs needle for tongue carcinoma. Seven patients with T1-2NO squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue were treated by this method at the Oita Medical University between 1988 and 1994. This method reduced the radiotherapist's radiation exposure and resulted in good local control in the primary site. We have found no other report of a case treated in this way. We emphasize that cesium therapy using an afterloading procedure is very useful in treating tongue carcinoma.