What is Brachytherapy?
Brachy Therapy also called
radioactive seed implantation; Brachy Therapy is the
placement of small radioactive "seeds"
directly into cancerous regions under the guidance of
Ultra Sound and fluoroscopy. Brachy Therapy is designed
to provide a highly targeted dose of radiation to the
prostate without harming other organs or surrounding
healthy tissue. Generally, the procedure requires only a
single hospital visit. Doctors pinpoint the location of
the tumor and map the area where the seeds will be
placed. Using a special probe, the physician positions
hollow needles to deliver, on average, 100 seeds to the
prostate. Each seed is smaller than a grain of rice, and
they remain in the prostate permanently.
 Studies have shown that
Brachy Therapy is an effective treatment option with a
lower risk of side effects and complications. The
potential risk of incontinence and impotence may be
reduced with radioactive seed implants compared to
surgery, allowing patients to resume their lifestyle-
and quality of life- quickly. 10- year and 12 year
studies of prostate cancer patients showed PSA levels
following Brachy Therapy superior to other forms of
treatment with 87% biochemical and clinical control.
|
