Prostate Seed Implant
Prostate brachytherapy, also known as prostate seed implant (PSI), is an advanced way to treat prostate cancer with radiation, avoiding some of the risks associated with traditional, invasive surgeries in some patients.
During PSI, radioactive seeds (about the size of a grain of rice) are implanted directly into the diseased prostate and never have to be removed. The seeds release gradual doses of concentrated radiation for about a year, destroying cancer cells. Advanced medical imaging equipment ensures precise placement of the seeds so that a minimal amount of healthy tissue is affected. PSI is performed by a team of specialists, including an urologist, radiation oncologist, medical physicist and registered nurse. The procedure does not involve cutting or significant bleeding, and most patients go home the day of the procedure.
The radiation from radioactive seeds used for prostate implantation is weak (although effective). Very little radiation leaves your body, so you are generally not a radiation risk to those around you. However, there are some safety precautions to take. You may sleep in the same bed with your partner with a pillow or two between you. Sexual intercourse may be resumed within two weeks after the procedure. There is a remote risk of ejaculating a seed, so you should wear a condom the first few times you have intercourse. It is common practice to avoid close contact (within six feet) with young children and pregnant women for three months following this procedure.