What are permanent radioactive seeds of the prostate?

Permanent radioactive seeds are a brachytherapy technique used to treat early- or intermediate-stage prostate cancer. It involves implanting tiny seeds, about the size of a grain of rice. These seeds continuously emit low-energy radiation over several weeks to months, destroying cancerous cells within the prostate without significantly damaging nearby organs such as the bladder or rectum. The seeds remain permanently in place, but their radioactivity gradually diminishes over time.

How is permanent radioactive seeding of the prostate performed?

The procedure is performed under spinal or general anesthesia and typically takes one to two hours. Thin needles are inserted through the skin between the scrotum and anus to reach the prostate, using transrectal ultrasound to guide the needles precisely. Seeds are implanted in predetermined locations based on a three-dimensional radiographic map that specifies their number and distribution within the gland. After implantation, CT or X-ray images are taken to confirm correct distribution, and the patient can often go home the same day or the following day.

What are the benefits of permanent radioactive seeds for prostate compared to external beam radiation therapy?

The key advantage is that the radiation in the radioactive seeds is concentrated within the prostate itself, allowing for: Delivery of a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor Minimized exposure of surrounding tissues (rectum and bladder) A significantly shorter treatment duration (one session versus several weeks with external beam radiation therapy) In addition, this treatment does not cause hair loss or general fatigue like some other types of radiation therapy. However, in some cases, it may be combined with external beam radiation therapy or hormonal therapy to increase its effectiveness, particularly in intermediate-risk cancers.