What is prostate brachytherapy?

Prostate brachytherapy, also known as prostate seed implantation or interstitial brachytherapy, is a type of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer.

Prostate brachytherapy may be done alone or in conjunction with external beam radiation therapy/hormonal therapy and is administered as an outpatient procedure. Prostate brachytherapy utilises the "real-time" interactive method resulting in maximum radiation effectiveness.

Although the primary aim of prostate brachytherapy is to cure the disease, in some circumstances, it may also be used to manage or control cancer, treat its symptoms, or delay the progression of the disease.

Who needs prostate brachytherapy?

Men with early-stage prostate cancer restricted to the prostate gland may benefit from prostate brachytherapy as a treatment option. For men with prostate cancer of low or intermediate risk, it is often seen as a therapy option. Men who do not qualify for surgery or who want a non-surgical treatment alternative may also be advised to undergo prostate brachytherapy. Not all prostate cancer patients are eligible for prostate brachytherapy. The patient's overall health, medical history, the size and stage of cancer, and personal preferences are typically considered when deciding whether to pursue this course of treatment. Patients should speak with ABJ Inc. about the advantages and disadvantages of prostate brachytherapy to decide if it is the best course for them.

How is prostate brachytherapy done?

Anaesthetic is administered initially to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the treatment. The prostate gland is then visualised in real-time using an ultrasonic probe placed into the rectum. The radiation oncologist uses ultrasound imaging to determine the number and location of the radioactive seeds in the prostate gland. A thin needle is inserted between the prostate gland and the scrotum after the oncologist determines the number and placement of seeds. The needles are used to introduce the seeds into the prostate gland. After all the seeds have been placed, the needles are taken out, and the incision is stitched up. The patient is observed for a brief period following the surgery to ensure no unanticipated issues. Following the operation, the patient will receive instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments with ABJ Inc. Depending on the kind of seeds used, the radioactive seeds will gradually leak radiation into the prostate gland over several weeks or months. The patient may encounter various adverse effects during this period, including frequent urination, urgency, and discomfort. These adverse effects are typically temporary and will go away over time.