Tiny radioactive seeds, about the size of a grain of rice, are implanted directly into the prostate in operating theatre. This is usually done as a day case and the patient will go home the same day. The seeds stay in the prostate and give a steady dose of radiation over a few months.
Thin tubes are placed into the prostate. Usually around 15 to 20 tubes. A source of radiation is passed down the tubes for a few minutes to destroy cancer cells. The source of radiation is then removed so no radiation is left in the body. This usually requires an overnight stay.
There is no clear evidence to recommend LDR or HDR brachytherapy over one another.
Both procedures are carried out under a general or spinal anaesthetic.
If given as a “Boost”, brachytherapy will be undertaken within 2 to 3 weeks before or after EBRT.
Please watch our video below if you would like to know more about brachytherapy, how it is administered and the advantages and disadvantages associated with this treatment for prostate cancer.
Benefit:
Radiation kills cancer cells. Because the radiation in Brachytherapy is delivered directly to the prostate, a high dose of radiation can be given to the cancer cells within the prostate, whilst sparing the surrounding normal tissues.
Side Effects:
Urinary symptoms:
- Immediately after brachytherapy you may experience some mild soreness in the pelvis and blood in the urine. This discomfort is temporary and usually wears off within a day or two. A small number of patients may require the catheter to be replaced. It is very rare that patients require catheterisation for more than a few weeks.
- For several days to several months, you may experience frequent or painful urination, a sense of urgency and a weaker urinary stream. Often this does not occur at once, but gradually builds up in the first few weeks after brachytherapy. These symptoms will gradually decrease. This can take up to six to twelve months after brachytherapy.
Bowel Symptoms:
- Occasionally patients experience rectal symptoms such as a feeling of fullness and soreness. Less likely (in less than 5% of patients) is the possibility of some mucus discharge or bleeding from the back passage, and an urgency to open your bowels. This is seldom for longer than three to four months.
Sexual Function:
- Your sexual function may be affected by this procedure. This occurs in about 30% of patients but is often helped with drugs