Brachytherapy Prostate Cancer Treatment in Charleston, SC
The physicians of Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC are skilled in the treatment of prostate cancer by way of radiation brachytherapy. We invite referring physicians to consider us for their prostate cancer patients who may benefit from this procedure.
As a service to our referring physicians, Lowcountry Urology Clinics would like to present some basic information on prostate brachytherapy that you may wish to share with your patients.
Details of the Prostate Brachytherapy Procedure
In prostate brachytherapy, the Urologist inserts a radioactive “seed” into the patient’s body, on or near the cancerous site. The seed can be of a higher dose, which is removed after a short time; or a lower dose that is left in for a longer time. Depending on the particular radioactive material used, some seeds may be left in permanently, as their radioactivity dissipates to a safe level.
Compared to standard, external-beam radiation, brachytherapy can deliver a higher dose of radiation specifically to the cancer site. It may also cause fewer side effects, and the treatment time is often shorter. A basic benefit of brachytherapy is that it causes greater destruction to the nearby cancer cells, while causing less damage to healthy cells farther away.
Recovery from the Prostate Brachytherapy Procedure
Brachytherapy treatment is often done in an outpatient setting. Sometimes there may an observation stay of one night. Patients often resume normal activity after a day or two.
Risks Associated with the Prostate Cryoablation Procedure
As is sometimes the case with prostate cancer treatments, there are some occurrences of post-op complications such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. We urge patients to discuss potential complications with their physician.
Choose Lowcountry Urology Clinics for Your Patients
For your patients that may benefit from brachytherapy of the prostate, Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC is a referral you can make with confidence. Contact us today!