Jacobi Cancer and Radiology

Seed Implants For Prostate Cancer

Seed implants for Prostate Cancer is relatively low-energy sources, and subsequently has limited tissue penetration. Therefore, the best candidates for these procedures are patients who have prostrate cancer that is contained within the prostate and is not very aggressive. Newer techniques using a CAT scan or MRI may be used to guide the proper placement of the implants.

This information is used to custom-design the treatment plan for you. Another option is for the ultrasound and treatment plan to be done at the same time as the radioactive seeds are implanted. The entire procedure takes approximately 90 minutes. Most patients go home the same day.

A radiation oncologist and urologist perform the procedure. During the procedure, the urologist provides ultrasound guidance and the radiation oncologist places the radioactive seeds. Although it is a relatively newer treatment, results show that, in patients with similar types of prostate cancer, seed implants alone or in combination with external beam radiation therapy appears as effective as a radical prostatectomy and regular external radiation in 10-year follow-up studies.

Urinary symptoms are the most common. These include frequent urination and a need to get to the bathroom quickly. Some men have a burning with urination and, in a few cases, an inability to empty the bladder completely. These symptoms can usually be managed with medicine, and they improve over time. Temporary self-catheterization may be necessary to help drain the bladder. Urinary incontinence is rare in general.

Rectal bleeding occurs in less than 1% of patients. Diarrhea is rare. The impotence rate at five years after the procedure is about 25% using brachytherapy alone. If hormone therapy is added, the impotence rate rises to 50%. While Seed implants for Prostate Cancer is an option to consider for some men, it is a decision best made in consultation with your doctor.