Single Fraction High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy: Too Good to Be True?

Permanent seed prostate brachytherapy as monotherapy is a highly effective treatment option for men with low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer, with long-term cancer control rates of 90% or higher. It has the convenience of a single treatment but often results in moderate urinary tract symptoms over a few months while the radiation is being delivered. Furthermore, seed loss or displacement can lead to suboptimal dosimetry, including cold areas within the prostate and higher dose than intended to urethra, rectum, and bladder.
Source: International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Clinical Investigation Source Type: research