Yttrium-90

Yttrium-90 is a radioactive isotope of the element yttrium. It is primarily used in medical treatments, particularly in targeted radiation therapy for cancer. Yttrium-90 emits beta radiation, which can destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. One of its main applications is in radioembolization, where tiny beads containing yttrium-90 are injected into blood vessels feeding tumors, delivering focused radiation directly to the cancer. This approach helps treat liver cancer and other tumors effectively. Yttrium-90 is also found in some types of medical imaging and research.