Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy Is A Minimally Invasive Procedure With High Success RatesThe use of prostate cancer brachytherapy provides a minimally invasive procedure to rid the body of cancer. Doctors who perform the prostate cancer brachytherapy procedure implant tiny radioactive seeds that are as small as a grain of rice into the prostate. These seeds are used to remove the cancer from inside the gland through radiation. The patient does not feel the seeds while they are inside of them. The prostate cancer brachytherapy procedure might include either radioactive Iodine (I-125) or palladium (Pd-103). Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy Procedure - How it is Performed The patient will receive anesthesia before the prostate cancer brachytherapy is performed. The needles which contain the seeds are inserted in the area between the scrotum and anus, the perineum skin, by using an ultrasound. The seeds emit localized radiation for several months in order to destroy the prostate cancer. This form of treatment is most effective for men who have been diagnosed with localized prostate cancer. No surgical incision is necessary and patients can recover within a short period of time. Who is a Candidate for Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy? This form of cancer radiation therapy is best for patients with localized prostate cancer. Survival rates for men who receive this procedure are from 81% to 93%. Given the aggressiveness of most cancers, especially if not treated early, this is a very high success rate. Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy - Risk Factors Two risk factors from this procedure include the chance of developing impotence and incontinence. However, the risks are less compared to other treatment options. Most patients report that they have the same level of potency as they had before receiving the treatment. Impotency risk increases with age, but can often be treated with prescription drugs. Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy - Recovery time The prostate cancer brachytherapy can be an outpatient procedure. Most men go home the same day of their treatment and can return to normal activity within a few days. It is recommended that patients wait at least two weeks before resuming sexual activity. Prostate Cancer Brachytherapy - Side Effects There are minimal side effects, such as a burning sensation during ejaculation or urination. Some patients experience an increase in urinary frequency. Treatment is available and these side effects usually disappear quickly. Other patients may experience a temporary difficulty with urination for a few weeks or even months after the implant procedure. Anyone who is considering this treatment should consult a physician who specializes in prostate cancer treatment.
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