Permanent Prostate Brachytherapy

FAQ

What kind of patients are candidates for permanent prostate brachytherapy?
In general, men who have small, early stage prostate cancers may be considered for brachytherapy. It can be used alone or in combination with external radiation beam therapy or hormonal therapy.

Is permanent prostate brachytherapy safe?
The radiation sources used to treat prostate cancer (Iodine-125 and Palladium-103) are low-energy radioactive sources. The majority of radiation that they give off is delivered over only a short distance (less than an inch from each seed). Once the radiation seeds are in place, the radiation emitted to tissues surrounding the prostate and to other people is minimal.

Should contact with other people be avoided?
Because the radiation used to treat prostate cancer and all other cancers has the potential for damaging healthy cells (as well as the cancer cells), it is advisable to limit exposure to children and pregnant women.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires no special precautions for patients receiving radiation seed implants after they leave the hospital. However, the following precautions are advised for the first two months after the implant procedure:

1. Limit prolonged close contact (less than six feet) with children and women who are or may be pregnant. Children should not sit on a subject's lap for extended periods of time.
2. Occasionally, a seed may be passed during urination. If this happens it is usually within one to two weeks of the implant. If this occurs, the seed can be flushed down the toilet.
3. Sexual intercourse may be resumed two weeks after the implant. Although it has not been reported in the medical literature, it is possible that a seed may be passed during ejaculation; therefore, a condom should be worn during intercourse for two months after the implant.

What side effects does permanent prostate brachytherapy cause?
The radiation may cause inflammation and swelling in the prostate. This may result in frequent urination, burning with urination, urinary urgency and a weaker urine stream. These symptoms typically last from one to six months in some patients. Avoiding foods and beverages that contain caffeine may help. If the symptoms persist, a physician may prescribe medication to help.