Brachytherapy (Internal radiotherapy)

Brachytherapy (Internal radiotherapy)

Internal radiotherapy (also called implant therapy or brachytherapy) is a type of radiotherapy where the source is placed in an area being treated. Two types of brachytherapy are used to treat prostate cancer.

One is the use of tiny permanent radioactive ‘seeds’. These seeds are put in the prostate, where they treat the cancer. The seeds lose their radioactivity over time. It usually requires an overnight stay in hospital. This type of Brach therapy(brachytherapy) is used instead of external radiotherapy. It is considered a good treatment for small tumors with a low Gleason score and with a low PSA.The other type of Brach therapy is a temporary implant. In this case, hollow needles are places inside the prostate.

Radioactive sources can be places in the hollow needles temporarily. After a few treatments, these temporary needles are removed. It usually requires an overnight stay in hospital. This type is used with external radiation, for men with higher PSA, higher Gleason score and large tumors.

Side effects of brachytherapy

There can be discomfort from inserting the needles or seeds. Otherwise the side effects of permanent and temporary brachytherapy are different.With permanent seeds, painful urination, poor urine flow and bladder irritation are common side effects.

These can start a month after treatment and last up to one year. Some men also have urinary incontinence. Erectile dysfunction (impotence) and rectal problems can also occur with brachytherapy. If you are resuming sexual intercourse, condoms should be used for the first two weeks after the seeds are implanted.

This is in case a seed is accidentally moved or ejaculated in semen. Temporary needles are usually used with external radiotherapy. The side effects from temporary needle are very similar to those of external radiation alone.