What should you know about high dose rate brachytherapy for prostate cancer?

During a procedure, clinicians place narrow applicators through the skin between the scrotum and anus, using imaging to guide their position. A radioactive source travels through the applicators for a planned period and then leaves; the applicators are removed after treatment. It may be used alone or combined with external Radiotherapy, depending on tumour features, prostate size, urinary function, and previous treatment.

The team discusses anaesthesia, catheter use, bowel and urinary effects, sexual function, and follow-up. Brachytherapy is a broader treatment category; the high dose rate approach uses a temporary source rather than seeds left in place.

Before treatment, share urinary symptoms, previous procedures, medicines that affect bleeding, and any bowel disease. Follow instructions about medicines, eating, transport, and activity. Burning or frequency when passing urine, a weaker stream, bruising, or bowel irritation can occur during recovery. Contact the team before changing medicines or if symptoms interfere with drinking, sleep, or daily activities.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, have heavy bleeding, severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever, fainting, or new leg weakness. Difficulty Passing Urine before treatment should be reported because baseline urinary function influences planning.

Why is high dose rate treatment suitable for my cancer? Will I also receive Radiotherapy or hormone treatment? How many procedures are planned? What urinary and bowel effects should I expect? When can I resume normal activities, and how will the prostate be monitored?