| | | Prostate Seed Implants | In the past, treatment options for prostate cancer were limited to radical surgery to remove the prostate, external beam radiation or 'watchful waiting.' Now there is a less traumatic option that is changing the way thousands of men live with and overcome prostate cancer—radioactive seed implant therapy (brachytherapy) First performed in Minnesota by MRO physician, Dr. Doug Olson in 1988. The procedure involves placement of 70-120 tiny 'seeds' into the prostate gland under ultrasound guidance. The titanium seeds are about the thickness of a pencil lead and just over 1/8 inch long. The seed placement procedure is performed in a specially-equipped operating room in tandem by the radiation therapist and an urologist. Working closely together, the team uses ultrasound to guide long thin metal tubes into the gland through which the seeds are placed. After placement, the tubes are removed. The patient is asleep under general anesthesia or occasionally spinal anesthesia if he is unable to tolerate general anesthesia. On average, the seed placement takes from 45 minutes to one hour.
The advantages of seed implant therapy are numerous: - Major Surgery Is Eliminated - Sophisticated ultrasound imaging now allows pinpoint placement of 80 to 120 seeds - each smaller than a grain of rice - inside the prostate.
- Normal Activity Is Resumed Fairly Quickly - The implantation procedure takes one to two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis under spinal or general anesthesia.
- In Most Cases, There Are No Long-Term Side Effects - Most patients have complete urinary control and retain their sexual function.
If you have prostate cancer, we know how important, and difficult, this time can be. At Minneapolis Radiation Oncology Centers, we are uniquely qualified to help you make the right decision. Our treatment staff will be at your side to provide compassionate care and support.
Questions and Answers
What makes radioactive prostate seed implant therapy so attractive?
Because the seeds are implanted without invasive surgery, almost all patients resume normal activities within 48 hours after the procedure. Usually, no lengthy hospital stay or surgical recovery period is required.
Are there any side effects?
There may be some temporary urinary side effects from the radiation, which your doctor can explain in detail. On average, though, most patients retain their urinary and sexual functions and experience few or no long-term side effects.
Is radioactive prostate seed implant therapy effective for all prostate cancer patients?
No. Eligibility for the implant depends upon the stage of the cancer, the size of the prostate and the physical condition of the patient.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually about one hour for the procedure itself, and another hour or two for recovery. Most normal activities can be resumed fairly quickly.
Do the seeds need to be removed?
No. After the radiation gradually wears off (which takes between six to 12 months), the seeds remain in your body. They are made of a material that is compatible with your tissue, and will have no affect whatsoever on your health.
How is the effectiveness of prostate seed implant therapy measured?
Approximately every six months, a blood test will be taken to measure your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, which will measure the effectiveness of your treatment.
Which treatment option is best for me?
The best treatment option is the one that effectively eliminates or controls your cancer with the least amount of discomfort, trauma or side-effects to your body. Important factors, such as type of cancer, age, physical shape and pre-existing medical conditions will also determine the type of treatment you should receive. The best advice is to familiarize yourself with all available options and discuss them with your doctor. | |
| |
