The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre was the first UK centre to introduce Papillon contact radiotherapy in 1993. Since then, we have been at the forefront of developing the treatment further. We are a leading training centre for healthcare professionals across the world who want to learn about Papillon treatment.
The Papillon technique is a groundbreaking type of radiotherapy for the treatment of rectal cancer, a type of bowel cancer. It means the cancer is in the rectum (back passage) – the final bit of the large intestine before it reaches the anus (bottom hole). If the cancer is small (less than three centimetres) with no evidence of lymph node spread, then local contact radiotherapy using the Papillon treatment can be considered as an alternative treatment option
Contact radiotherapy (low energy x-ray treatment) is recommended for patients who are not fit enough for general anaesthesia, or who do not want major surgery and the formation of a stoma.
What we do
If you are suitable for Papillon treatment, your doctor will explain what it involves, the benefits and any potential risks. They will also explain the other treatments that are available.
If you decide to have Papillon treatment, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form confirming you want it. You can ask them any questions you have about your treatment options. It is important that you choose the treatment that you feel is right for you.
You will normally receive your treatment as an outpatient.
A small enema will be given to clear your bowels so that we can visualise your tumour properly and treat it accurately. There is no need to alter your diet or medication unless you have been told otherwise.
You will usually be in the treatment room for about 30 minutes. Most of this time is to get you ready for treatment and make sure you are in the right position for the radiation to treat your cancer.
The radiographers will explain and show you how to get into position for your treatment. Then gels will be applied inside your bottom to numb the area and help relax the muscles to ease any discomfort.
Your doctor will check your back passage to find the cancer using a small scope that lets them see inside your rectum.
They will insert an applicator into your bottom so they can deliver the treatment. The applicator goes over the tumour. The treatment tube is passed through the applicator until it reaches the tumour. The treatment tube has a camera so we can check it is in the correct place next to the tumour.
When everything is ready, the team will go behind a glass screen and deliver your treatment. They can see you and will offer reassurance throughout. Treatment is only 2 minutes long.
The number of treatments you need will depend on the response of your tumour and the type of previous treatment (surgery or external beam radiotherapy) you have received. Papillon treatment is usually given fortnightly for two (post-surgery) or three treatments (maximum four treatments, if necessary).
Your doctor will tell you how your cancer is responding. They will also explain how many Papillon treatments you might need and any other treatment you might need afterwards.
You can always ask us any questions you have.
Find out more in this video about what to expect if you are having Papillon treatment.
Our team
Consultants
Clinical Oncologists
Radiographers
- Sarah Stead – Brachytherapy Clinical Specialist
Patient information leaflet - guide to Papillon treatment at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre
Papillon training course for healthcare professionals
Referral
You cannot refer yourself for brachytherapy. You need to be referred by your cancer specialist (oncologist), surgeon or GP. They can email our specialist service coordinator for a Papillon referral form.