Brachytherapy (Low Dose Rate)

Procedures we perform

ABOUT BRACHYTHERAPY

What is Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy?

Low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy, also known as seed brachytherapy, is a procedure to implant radioactive seeds into the prostate for the treatment of prostate cancer.

The seeds stay in the prostate permanently, releasing a rapidly declining dose of radiation. This results in a very high, localised dose of radiation being delivered to the prostate.

Why is LDR Brachytherapy performed?

LDR brachytherapy is used to treat prostate cancer which is localised to the prostate.

It is a treatment option for men with low to intermediate risk prostate cancer (Gleason grade 6 or 7, ISUP grade group 1 or 2, PSA <10ng/mL).

The radiation from each brachytherapy seed only penetrates a few millimetres. Combined, the seeds produce a high level of targeted radiation within the prostate, while minimising radiation exposure to the surrounding organs, including the bladder, bowel, and urethra (waterpipe).

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a disease caused by abnormal growth of cells in the prostate. These cells have the potential to grow within the prostate and spread to other parts of the body.

PATIENT JOURNEY

What does LDR Brachytherapy involve?

LDR Brachytherapy involves two separate procedures.

The first procedure, known as a Volume Study, is used to create an individualised treatment plan. It involves placing an ultrasound probe in the rectum and a telescope in the bladder (cystoscopy) to define the anatomy of the prostate.

The second procedure, performed a few weeks later, involves implanting multiple radioactive seeds in the prostate by passing needles through the perineum (the skin between the scrotum and the anus). The placement of the seeds is guided by real time ultrasound imaging from an ultrasound probe in the rectum.

Both procedures are performed under general anaesthetic.

What is the recovery after LDR Brachytherapy?

The volume study is performed as day surgery. You can return to all normal activities immediately after the procedure. The seed implant procedure usually requires a one night stay in hospital.

A catheter is inserted at the end of the procedure. It is removed before dischare from hospital.

You will have mild pain and bruising in the perineum for a few days after the procedure.

You can usually return to most activities, including work, within a week or two of seed implantation.

Will any other prostate cancer treatment be required after brachytherapy?

The majority of men who have brachytherapy wont require any further treatment after the procedure.

Your urologist will monitor for signs of prostate cancer recurrence after the treatment with a PSA blood test. If there is evidence of cancer recurrence, further treatment such as surgery, hormone therapy, or focal therapy may be required.

OUR TEAM

Meet our Urologists

The following doctors in our practice perform LDR Brachytherapy:

Dr Glen Wood

Urologist