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Prostate Brachytherapy

What is the cancer treatment, "Prostate Brachytherapy"?

Prostate brachytherapy is a widely executed radiation treatment for prostate cancer, a type of cancer that begins in the prostate gland. Prostate cancer remains treatable when diagnosed early, which is why screenings should happen before symptoms arise.

The prostate is a tiny gland that resembles the shape of a walnut, which is responsible for the secretion of seminal fluid that feeds and delivers sperm. Unfortunately, the prostate is an area where cancer may occur.

Prostate cancer is a widespread form of cancer, although many forms of the illness are slow-growing. Conversely, there are other types of prostate cancer which are malignant and travel to other parts of the body quickly.

Early detection helps significantly when the cancer is confined to the prostate, offering the most optimal treatment outcomes.

How do you perform prostate brachytherapy?

Administration of prostate brachytherapy depends on how quickly the cancer is spreading, your current health status, the side effects, and the advantages of the treatment. For example, low-level prostate cancer may not require immediate treatment, which is why doctors capitalise on active surveillance, a form of treatment that monitors the progress of the cancer.

Prostate brachytherapy is done by inserting radioactive sources (tiny radioactive seeds Iodine -125) in the prostate tissue. The radioactive seeds work by releasing low levels of radiation slowly over time. As a result, brachytherapy helps treat localised cancer that hasn’t spread farther than the prostate and, at the same time, does not endanger surrounding normal tissue.

How do I cope after the diagnosis?

After confirming the diagnosis of prostate cancer, you may experience a mixture of emotions such as anger, anxiety, fear, and depression. However, it's important to know that there are ways doctors can prevent the spread of the illness, mainly when discovered early. Furthermore, your oncologist will develop a unique treatment plan that helps you cope with symptoms, if any. At the time, it's crucial to form a supportive network of people, which includes other cancer survivors, family members and friends.

"CANCER IS A WORD, NOT A SENTENCE."

~John Diamond

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FAQ

1.What are the early signs of prostate cancer?
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Spots of blood in the urine
  • Spots of blood in the semen
  • Pain that travels to the bone
  • Weight loss
2.Do the radioactive seeds remain in the prostate?

Yes, the radioactive seeds are permanently inserted into the prostate tissue, where they are left to release low levels of radiation.

3.How long are the radiation seeds expected to work?

After twelve months, the seeds are no longer radioactive.

4.Read more about Vaal Prostate Brachytherapy Institute?

The Vaal Prostate Brachytherapy Institute is a specialized medical facility focused on the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, with a particular emphasis on brachytherapy.
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