What should you know about LDR brachytherapy for prostate cancer?

Low-dose-rate brachytherapy is an internal form of radiotherapy. During a planned procedure, a specialist places small radioactive seeds through the skin between the scrotum and anus, using imaging to guide their position in the prostate. The seeds stay in place while the radiation dose falls gradually. The aim is to treat the prostate while limiting exposure to nearby tissues.

Suitability depends on the cancer's extent and grade, prostate size, urinary function, previous procedures, and other health factors. LDR treatment may be used alone or alongside another treatment in selected situations. It is not the same as targeted radioisotope therapy, which delivers radioactive medicine through the bloodstream to selected targets.

Your team may assess urinary flow, prostate volume, scans, and biopsy findings before recommending seed implantation. Tell them about blood thinners, urinary symptoms, previous prostate surgery, and bowel conditions. After treatment, burning when passing urine, a weaker stream, urinary frequency, or a small amount of blood can occur as the prostate reacts. Medicines and practical measures can help, and symptoms often need monitoring during recovery.

Follow the radiation-safety instructions given by your centre, including advice about close contact with others. Keep follow-up appointments so urinary function, prostate-specific antigen results, and treatment response can be reviewed.

Contact your treatment team urgently if you cannot pass urine, develop heavy bleeding, have a fever, or experience severe or rapidly worsening pelvic pain. Seek emergency help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, or one-sided leg swelling. Difficulty passing urine can need prompt treatment after prostate procedures and should not be ignored.

Why is LDR brachytherapy suitable for my cancer? Will I need another treatment? How will my urinary symptoms affect the decision? What side effects should I expect? What radiation precautions and follow-up schedule apply to me?