Radioactive seed implants are used to treat prostate cancer. This procedure is one of several options that patients have to control and / or cure prostate cancer.
The procedure involves implanting approximately 70-120 seeds into the prostate gland. The seeds then give off low energy x-rays that destroy cancer cells in the prostate.
Patients are taken to the operating room and given general anesthesia. Thin needles are then passed into the prostate gland and are guided by ultrasound. The number of needles used and the number of seeds placed into the prostate varies by patient depending on the size of the prostate gland. When the needle is in the correct position, the needle is slowly withdrawn from the prostate and the radioactive seeds are left behind.
The procedure is performed by a urologist and a radiation oncologist. Using computers and with planning assistance from a radiation physicist, the procedure is individualized to your condition.
The procedure takes 60-90 minutes and does not require a stay in the hospital.
Patients are instructed to have only light activity and to avoid heavy lifting for seven days. Patients are usually on antibiotics for seven days to prevent infection. Patients also need to perform urine straining for seven days to detect a possible seed loss. A condom should be used for 14 days after the procedure for sexual activity. Patients should avoid extensive exposure (defined as within six feet) to children 18 months old or younger, or to women who are pregnant or potentially pregnant.
Risks include radiation exposure and the risks associated with undergoing general anesthesia. There is also a slight risk of bleeding, infection, loss of potency and potential damage to the bowel or bladder.
For appropriately selected patients, the PSA (Prostate Surface Antigen) is effectively controlled in 85 percent of patients after five years, 80 percent of patients after 10 years, and 75-80 percent of patients after 15 years.
Q: Will insurance cover the treatment?
Yes
Q: Will I lose potency?
There is a possibility that you may lose potency, however, 60-70 percent of potent patients remain potent after the procedure.
Q: Who should have this procedure done?
Eligible patients are those who have organ confined disease, meaning all of the cancer cells are within the prostate gland. The patient should also have a relatively low PSA . Contact your urologist or radiation oncologist for specific details.
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