Endobronchial Brachytherapy: An Effective Option for Palliation of Malignant Bronchial Obstruction

Symptoms resulting from tumors extending to the endobronchial wall are common in patients with lung cancer and significantly impact quality of life. A number of treatment options are available for palliation, including endobronchial brachytherapy, stent placement, laser photoresection, external-beam radiation therapy, and photodynamic therapy. This review will focus on the methodology and role of endobronchial brachytherapy while discussing benefits of other treatment options as additions or alternatives to brachytherapy.