Brachytherapy for prostate cancer in the UK

Permanent seed implants release radiation gradually inside the gland, while temporary treatment uses catheters to deliver a source that is removed. Suitability depends on the cancer's features, prostate size, urinary function, general health and any previous pelvic treatment.

A urology and oncology team reviews scans, biopsy information and current urinary symptoms before recommending an approach. Brachytherapy may be offered alone for some disease confined to the prostate or combined with external radiotherapy and hormone treatment when broader local treatment is appropriate.

Access differs between hospitals because placement requires trained staff, planning systems and specialist equipment. If a local centre does not provide the technique, the clinical team can explain whether referral to another centre is suitable.

Give the team a current medicine list, especially blood-thinning treatment, and describe any weak stream, urgency, leakage or trouble emptying the bladder. Follow directions about food, drink, bowel preparation and anaesthesia. Plan transport and practical support for the first part of recovery.

Urinary frequency, stinging, a weaker stream, bruising between the legs and tiredness can follow treatment. Take prescribed medicines as directed, drink according to your team's advice and follow the centre's temporary precautions relating to close contact if permanent seeds were implanted.

Contact the treatment centre urgently if you cannot pass urine, develop fever or chills, have pain that is worsening despite prescribed relief, or notice heavy bleeding or clots. Complete inability to urinate with lower abdominal pain needs prompt assessment.

Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, collapse, confusion or uncontrolled bleeding. For gradually increasing urinary difficulty, call the named oncology or urology contact before the problem becomes complete blockage.

Ask which brachytherapy technique is proposed and why it matches your cancer and urinary health. Compare likely effects on urination, erections and bowel function with external radiotherapy, surgery and monitoring options.

Clarify the referral location, anaesthetic plan, follow-up tests, work or driving restrictions, contact precautions and the route for urgent advice after discharge.