Methods and apparatus for intraocular brachytherapy

A device for local, directional delivery of radiation to intraocular target tissue comprising:

• a radioactive radiation source attached to a source delivery wire, the source delivery wire having proximal and distal ends and wherein the proximal end and the distal end of the radioactive source wire comprise steel braided wire with a connection therebetween, and a reinforcing member for securing the proximal end to the distal end;
• a substantially rigid cannula sized for intraocular insertion into an eye and having a proximal end and a distal end for receiving the radiation source, the cannula being fluid tight so as to prevent contact of body fluids with the radiation source;
• and
• a housing to which the proximal end of the cannula is secured for moving the radiation source between a retracted proximal position interior of the housing and a treatment position at the distal end of the cannula, the housing comprising an advancement mechanism operatively coupled to the radiation source, the advancement mechanism being movable to move the radiation source between the retracted position and the treatment position.