Brachytherapy Low Dose Seed Implantation for Carcinoma of the Prostate:

This is radiation treatment of cancer of the prostate. It consists of the implantation of radioactive seeds each the size of a grain of rice into the prostate. It allows the delivery of a high dose of radiation into the prostate without damage to the bladder or rectum.

The seeds are implanted under general anaesthesia. An ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum to show the prostate. The radioactive seeds are loaded into needles. These are then inserted into the prostate via the perineum, and deposited into the substance of the prostate.

The number and location of the seeds is determined prior to the implantation so as to provide an effective even dose through the prostate.
It is suitable for low stage, low grade cancers of the prostate. The best results are achieved with the following parameters:


• PSA less than 10.

• Gleason score 6 or less.

• Stage T1 or T2.

• Prostate volume less than 50cc.

• No obstructive voiding problems

The advantages are:

• Minimal time in hospital and early return to normal activities.

• Low risk of incontinence

• Diminished risk of erectile dysfunction.

Dr Harewood was instrumental in setting up the Brachytherapy program at the Freemasons Hospital, and has been carrying out Brachytherapy procedures since 2002.
He does this therapy in conjunction with radiation oncologists from Radiation Oncology Victoria (ROV)

Links:
emedicine article on Brachytherapy
www.oncura.com/patients.html