Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer by placing small radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland. These seeds emit radiation that targets the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This makes brachytherapy a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment option for prostate cancer.
There are two main types of brachytherapy for prostate cancer: high dose rate (HDR) and low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy.
High Dose Rate Brachytherapy
High dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer. During this procedure, small tubes or catheters are placed into the prostate gland and a high dose of radiation is delivered directly to the tumour site. The radiation source is then removed after a few minutes, and the patient can return home the same day.
HDR brachytherapy is often used in combination with external beam radiation therapy, and studies have shown that it can be effective in treating prostate cancer, with a high cure rate and low rate of side effects. However, high dose rate brachytherapy requires specialized equipment and training, and not all medical centers may offer this treatment option. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of HDR brachytherapy with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for the patient.
Low Dose Rate Brachytherapy
Low Dose Rate (LDR) brachytherapy is another type of brachytherapy used to treat prostate cancer. LDR involves placing small radioactive seeds, typically made of iodine or palladium, directly into the prostate gland. The seeds are inserted through thin needles, which are guided into the prostate gland using ultrasound. Once in place, the seeds release low levels of radiation to the prostate over a period of several weeks, providing a steady dose of radiation to the cancerous cells. Over time, the radiation from the seeds decreases until they are no longer radioactive. Unlike HDR, which typically involves a single treatment session, LDR is usually performed on an outpatient basis and may require a hospital stay of one or two nights. One of the advantages of LDR is that it minimizes the radiation exposure to healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects. However, LDR may not be suitable for all patients, and a healthcare provider can help determine the best treatment option based on the patient’s individual needs and medical history.
HDR vs LDR Brachytherapy
Both HDR and LDR brachytherapy have shown to be effective in treating prostate cancer, and the choice between the two types often depends on factors such as cancer stage, patient age, and overall health. HDR brachytherapy may be preferred for patients who are not good candidates for surgery or who have smaller tumors, while LDR brachytherapy may be better for patients with larger tumors or those who have a longer life expectancy. Your healthcare provider can help you determine which type of brachytherapy is best for your individual case.
One of the main benefits of brachytherapy for prostate cancer is its high success rate in treating the disease. Studies have shown that brachytherapy has a high cure rate for low-risk prostate cancer, with a low rate of complications compared to other treatment options². Additionally, brachytherapy has a shorter recovery time and fewer side effects compared to other forms of radiation therapy or surgery.
However, like any medical procedure, brachytherapy does carry some risks. Potential side effects of brachytherapy can include urinary problems, such as frequent urination or urinary incontinence, as well as bowel problems, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual side effects.