Perspective Therapeutics Inc.

11/17/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/17/2023 15:36

Is Prostate Brachytherapy with Cesium-131 Right for You

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, with various treatment options available depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease. Prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131 is a cutting-edge treatment that has gained popularity in recent years. In this blog, we will explore who is a candidate for prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131 and what this treatment entails.

Understanding Prostate Brachytherapy with Cesium-131

Prostate brachytherapy, also known as seed implantation, is a form of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer. In this procedure, tiny radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate gland. These seeds emit radiation, effectively targeting and destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Cesium-131 is one of the radioactive isotopes commonly used in prostate brachytherapy.

Who is a Candidate for Prostate Brachytherapy with Cesium-131?

Not every prostate cancer patient is a suitable candidate for prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131. The eligibility criteria typically consider several factors, including:

  1. Localized Prostate Cancer: Prostate brachytherapy is most effective for patients with localized prostate cancer, specifically those where the disease has not spread outside of the prostate gland.
  2. Tumor Size and Locations: The size and location of the tumor within the prostate gland plays a crucial role in determining candidacy. Prostate brachytherapy is most effective when the tumor is not too large and localized.
  3. General Health: Candidates should be in relatively good overall health to undergo the procedure. The patient's ability to tolerate anesthesia and implantation of radioactive seeds are important considerations.
  4. Personal Preferences: Patient preferences and values play a significant role in treatment decisions. Some patients prefer minimally invasive treatments like brachytherapy over more invasive treatment options like surgery.

Consultation with a healthcare provider, specifically a radiation oncologist or urologist, is crucial to determine whether prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131 is a suitable treatment option. They will assess your medical history, conduct a thorough physical examination, and may perform imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to determine the extent of the cancer.

Benefits of Prostate Brachytherapy with Cesium-131

For eligible candidates, prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131 offers several advantages:

  1. Highly Targeted Treatment: The precise placement of radioactive seeds allows for the focused delivery of radiation to the prostate gland, minimizing damage to nearby organs and tissues.
  2. Minimally Invasive: The procedure is minimally invasive, often performed on an outpatient basis, and has a shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
  3. High Cure Rates: Prostate brachytherapy has shown excellent long-term cancer control and cure rates, making it a viable treatment option for many patients. 1

Prostate brachytherapy with Cesium-131 is an innovative and effective treatment option for many men with prostate cancer. However, candidacy depends on several factors. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is suitable for you. If you are a candidate, this approach can offer a targeted and minimally invasive way to combat prostate cancer and improve your quality of life.

Citations:

Benoit RM, Horne ZD, Houser CJ, Smith RP, Beriwal S. Cesium-131 prostate brachytherapy: A single institutional long-term experience. Brachytherapy. 2020 May-Jun;19(3):298-304. doi: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.02.006. Epub 2020 Apr 2. PMID: 32249178.