The Types of Radioactive Seed Implants for Prostate Cancer


Posted December 27, 2018 by LewisvilleCancerCare

Dr. Kiran Kancharia explains in detail the two types of radioactive seed implants used on patients with prostate cancer.

 
Lewisville, TX – Dec 27, 2018 – Prostate seed implants are one of the advancements made in prostate cancer treatment. They are minimally invasive, same day procedures with very few complications and side effects. Small radioactive seeds are implanted into the tumor cavity where they break down and release small doses of radiation to the site. Prostate seed implants can be administered alone or alongside other therapies in cases of high risk or advanced stages of the disease.

“The procedure of prostate seed implant takes about an hour, and has low energy sources with little tissue penetration,” explained Dr. Kancharia. "After the implant, the patient can go back home on the same day and return to normal activities within a few days."

The two types of prostate seed implants (brachytherapy) include:

• Permanent (Low Dose Rate) Brachytherapy – This is a treatment procedure for localized prostate cancer. The doctor implants radioactive seeds into the prostate gland guided by an ultrasound. The computer generates a treatment that determines the number of seeds and the location they’ll be placed in the prostate. The implants stay permanently in place and gradually become biologically inert after some months. Doses of radiation are delivered with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues.

• Temporary (High Dose Rate) Brachytherapy – This is used to treat men with locally advanced prostate cancer or those with intermediate risk. Hollow catheters or needles are placed into the prostate gland. They are then filled with radioactive material for five to fifteen minutes. The radioactive material is removed after each treatment. The procedure is repeated two to three times for a few days. The catheters or needles are removed after the final treatment.

“Seed implants are designed for patients with less aggressive, localized prostate cancer,” continued Dr. Kancharia. “Proper placement of the implants is guided by an MRI or CAT scan. A transrectal ultrasound could be carried out at the same time as the radioactive seed implant.”

About Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group

The Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group has state-of-the-art facilities that offer individualized care to patients throughout North Texas. With a team of expert oncologists and other specialists on staff, the Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group treats a variety of cancers and blood disorders with an eye towards the newest advancements available in diagnostic technology and treatments.

Visit them at https://lewisvilleflowermoundoncology.com/service/prostate-seed-implants-2-2/ to know more.
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Issued By Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group
Phone 972.316.4220
Business Address 500 W. MainSuite 380
Lewisville, Texas 75057
Country United States
Categories Health
Tags seed implants for prostate cancer
Last Updated December 27, 2018