Radiation seeds for prostate cancer

Radiation seeds deliver treatment from inside the prostate rather than from a machine outside the body. Using ultrasound or other imaging, the clinician places them through the perineum. The radiation reaches nearby prostate tissue while the team plans around the urethra, bladder and rectum.

Seed treatment is not suitable for every prostate cancer. The decision considers the tumour's extent and grade, prostate size, urinary flow, prior procedures and other health conditions. Brachytherapy describes this internal approach. External radiotherapy and surgery are different options, and advanced disease may require a treatment such as targeted radioisotope therapy or bone-strengthening therapy.

Before treatment, share urinary symptoms, bowel problems, medicines that affect bleeding, and any previous prostate or hip procedure. Follow the preparation instructions, including any bowel or bladder steps. Plan for a ride home if advised. In the days afterward, mild soreness, urinary urgency, burning or a small amount of blood may occur; use the prescribed medicines and keep the follow-up schedule.

Ask the team for clear instructions about activity, sexual activity, travel and close contact with others. Radiation-safety advice varies with the seed type, so use the instructions from your own treatment team.

Call your treatment team for rising fever, worsening pelvic pain, persistent bleeding, severe constipation, or increasing difficulty passing urine. Seek emergency care if urine will not pass, bleeding is heavy, pain is severe, or you become faint or confused.

Ask how the seeds will be placed, whether they stay in the prostate, how treatment will be checked, and how existing urinary symptoms affect eligibility. Ask about possible changes in erections, ejaculation, bowel habits and continence, plus the exact aftercare and radiation-safety instructions.