HDR and LDR Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
What Is Brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation treatment that places radioactive material directly into or near a prostate tumor. It allows for high radiation doses to target cancer cells while protecting healthy tissues.
Brachytherapy can also be combined with Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) to increase biochemical control and improve outcomes for localized prostate cancer.
There are two main types of brachytherapy:
- High Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy
- Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy
High Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy
How HDR Brachytherapy Works:
HDR involves temporarily placing tiny tubes (catheters) inside the prostate gland. A powerful radioactive source moves through these tubes, delivering precise radiation for a few minutes at a time. After each session, the radioactive source and catheters are completely removed.
Benefits of HDR:
- Quick and precise radiation delivery
- Minimal damage to healthy surrounding tissue
- Shorter overall treatment time
What to Expect:
- Usually performed over a few outpatient sessions
- Mild discomfort is common but temporary
- Rapid return to normal activities
Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy
How LDR Brachytherapy Works:
LDR involves permanently placing small radioactive “seeds” directly into the prostate gland. These seeds slowly release radiation over several months, targeting cancer cells continuously while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Benefits of LDR:
- Single treatment procedure
- Continuous, low-level radiation for effective cancer control
- Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
What to Expect:
- Performed under anesthesia as an outpatient procedure
- Minor swelling or discomfort that usually resolves quickly
- Most normal activities can be resumed within a few days
Possible Side Effects of Brachytherapy
Common side effects may include:
- Increased urinary frequency or urgency
- Mild discomfort or temporary soreness
- Temporary bowel irritation
These side effects typically resolve within a few weeks. Serious long-term side effects are rare but should be discussed with your doctor.
Which Brachytherapy Option Is Right for You?
Your radiation oncologist will help determine the best type of brachytherapy based on factors such as:
- Cancer stage and aggressiveness
- Prostate size and shape
- Your overall health and personal preferences
Brachytherapy offers an effective, minimally invasive treatment choice for prostate cancer with excellent outcomes.