The purpose of this web page is to explain the details of radioactive seed implants for prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States. Many more men are being diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer because of new tests for early detection. Over 300,000 new cases in the United States are expected in 1997.

Digital rectal examination for staging For a larger view, Click Here	Newly diagnosed cases of prostate cancer in the USA For a larger view, Click Here

In its early stages, prostate cancer is usually a slow-growing tumor. If diagnosed early, when still confined to the prostate gland, it can be cured either with surgery (radical prostatectomy) or radiation therapy. Recent advances in both modalities have reduced the risk of complications and side effects with both treatments comparable in effectiveness.

Treatment options for early stage of prostate cancer For a larger view, Click Here

Many options exist for treatment of prostate cancer. In order to determine the best one, many factors must be considered: the size and extent of the cancer (stage), the apparent aggressiveness (pathologic features), PSA- (prostate specific antigen) level, age, health of the patient and the patient's preferences.

Gleason diagram For a larger view, Click Here	A model for the development of prostate cancer For a larger view, Click Here

Radioactive seed implantation (brachytherapy) of the prostate has recently gathered increasing attention as a "new" option for treatment of prostate cancer. In fact, it has been used for many years. However, the techniques used to perform the implant have steadily improved, leading to renewed enthusiasm for this procedure because of its success rate, low risk of complications and convenience.

Achieving good results with brachytherapy requires substantial technical skill. The technical and clinical results can vary substantially from one practitioner to another. The dependence on physician's skill is much greater than for external beam radiation therapy. Performing good implants, requires skill, attention to detail and tolerance for tedium.* There is also a significant dependence on manual dexterity and familiarity with the physics of brachytherapy. At Thomas Jefferson University we have devoted a great amount of time and energy to our implant program which is recognized nationally and internationally for the research that has resulted from our work.

For more information, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions Section.

* Prostate Brachytherapy made complicated by Kent Wallner, John Blasko, and Michael J. Dattoli. SmartMedicine Press, Seattle Washington, 1997.