Overview
Brachytherapy is considered a type of internal radiation therapy that relies on the implantation of highly radioactive seeds in the prostate. This localised treatment helps treat cancer confined to a specific region of the body, which, in this case, is the prostate.
Prostate brachytherapy involves minimal radioactive disturbance to surrounding tissue and includes two main types:
- High-dose rate brachytherapy, a temporary form of treatment, involves administering high doses of radiation for several minutes before the radioactive sources are removed. This temporary nature of the treatment offers hope for a swift recovery.
- Low-dose rate brachytherapy involves the permanent placement of radioactive seeds that release radiation over a long period of time.
Procedure
Before the brachytherapy, your doctor will arrange a consultation prior to this to explain the procedure in detail.
Low dose rate brachytherapy:
The precision of the procedure ensures that the radioactive seeds are inserted in the exact location, minimising the risk of damage to surrounding tissues. The needle is carefully placed through the skin between the scrotum and perineum within the prostate. The tiny radioactive seeds release radiation over the next few months.
High dose rate brachytherapy:
High-dose-rate brachytherapy involves inserting radioactive seeds into the body over a short period. Thin tubes are placed through the perineum within the prostate at specific locations. You'll receive an anaesthetic, so you will not experience any painful sensations during the procedure. The tubes that attach to a machine feed wires, which allow radioactive sources to enter the prostate. The radioactive wires release radiation for a limited time only.
Recovery
You may anticipate swelling and pain inside the perineum. Your doctor will advise you on the use of ice packs, which can be applied for a short amount of time only. He will also prescribe medication to alleviate pain in the area.
FAQ
About one to two hours
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are considered concerning urological symptoms?
- A weak urinary stream
- Signs of bladder stones
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain