Prostate seed implantation—known as brachytherapy, or radioactive seed implantation—is a promising and minimally invasive treatment for early stages of prostate cancer. It has become one of the most effective prostate cancer treatments available today and works by placing radioactive seeds directly into the affected areas of the prostate gland. These seeds give off radioactivity, which kills cancer cells.
As they work to kill cancer cells, the seeds gradually lose their radioactive properties and can safely remain in the prostate. Radiation dosages are calculated by software and imaging is used to properly place the seeds.
The procedure is performed on an ambulatory care basis and allows the patient to quickly recover with one single treatment.