A member asked:

Can having radiation pellets implanted in me expose my family to radioactivity?

8 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Reza Shirazi answered

Specializes in Radiation Oncology

Yes: Radioactive seeds like iodine give off radiation that decreases over time called decay. One can decrease exposure by increasing shielding, distance and decreasing the time of exposure.

Answered 7/20/2012

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Yes: Depends on the pellet type. Most likely iodine or palladium. You should have gotten instruction on who to avoid. Rules are usually for children less than 13 & pregnant women. They should stay off your lap and not sit next to you. 2 feet away is safe and it's for 6 months with iodine and 2 months for palladium. After that time there is no more rules.

Answered 10/15/2017

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Only harmless levels: If pellets are inserted, you can only leave a controlled environemnt if the dose is sufficiently low. In prostate cancer, we urge pregnant women and children to avoid the implanted person, or at least stay 5-10 feet away and limit time at closer distances to give a quick smooch.

Answered 1/17/2012

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