This procedure, also known as brachytherapy, uses radioactive seeds implanted directly to the site of the tumor. The technique spares surrounding healthy tissue with fewer side effects than standard therapies. Prostate seed implants are performed on an outpatient basis by a radiation oncologist, urologist and diagnostic technician.
Prior to surgery, patients undergo a prostate volume study which generates a 3-D computerized plan of the implant. Later, during surgery, the surgeon places the small radioactive seeds – about the size of a grain of rice – into the prostate via small needles and guided by ultrasound imaging. The seeds remain permanently in the prostate and deliver targeted, low-dose radiation for several months.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete. The final step for the patient involves a CT scan of the pelvic region one to two months after surgery.
Prostate seed implants are offered at Inova Alexandria Hospital Cancer Center, Inova Fairfax Hospital Cancer Center, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital and Mary Elizabeth Radiation Oncology Center at Inova Loudoun Hospital.
