North American Scientific Medical - NAS Medical

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Prostate Cancer Frequently Asked Questions


 

What kind of patient is best suited for a seed implant?
The procedure is primarily for men with early-stage prostate cancer. Seed implant alone is used for patients who have a low risk of disease outside the prostate gland. External beam radiation plus seed implant is used in situations in which there is a greater risk of disease outside the prostate gland.

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What kind of physician typically performs the seed implant, and in what kind of setting?
Seed implants are performed in a variety of settings, but the two primary settings are Ambulatory Surgery Centers and outpatient departments within a hospital. The team usually consists of a radiation oncologist, a urologist, and a radiation physicist or dosimetrist. An anesthesiologist typically performs either spinal anesthesia or general anesthesia.

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What discomfort should I anticipate after having a seed implant?
Complication rates with radioactive seed implants are less than those of radical prostatectomy or external beam radiation. After the implant, there is typically some soreness in the groin area below the scrotum for two or three days, which is managed very effectively with mild analgesics. Narcotic pain medications are rarely required.

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For what period of time is it possible to pass seeds?
If seeds are going to be passed it will usually happen during the first few urinations or ejaculations.

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Is it possible to experience blood in the urine, or pass a blood clot after the implant?
Blood and/or clots will frequently be noticed in the urine immediately after the procedure. This will usually pass within twenty-four hours. If blood in the urine persists, an evaluation is appropriate. Consult your physician.

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Are patients radioactive after a seed implant?
Almost all of the radiation energy is absorbed into the prostate gland. It is nevertheless recommended that small children and pregnant women not sit on the patient's lap for several months after treatment. Other normal activities such as hugging children, sleeping with a spouse, or sitting around a table are fine. Risk to pets from sitting on a patient's lap is extremely low.

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What are the effects of seed implants on short- and long-term potency?
The effect can be immediate or delayed. Studies to date indicate that, overall, approximately 25-30% of men who are fully potent prior to the seed implant will regain potency after the procedures. Another 50% will experience some decrease in their ability but will still be able to have intercourse. Medication for erectile dysfunction (ED) helps the majority of these men.

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Will a seed implant cause short- or long-term incontinence?
The risk of long-term incontinence after either seed implant or seed implant combined with external beam radiation is extremely low: less than 1%.  Short-term, some patients will experience significant urgency.  This will resolve as the seeds lose their activity.

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What is the standard follow-up to a seed implant?
Follow-up is different for each center but typically the first visit for a PSA test, after the post-implant exam, is at six-month intervals, with annual exams recommended. After five years, based on your physician's recommendation, a PSA test may be performed annually.

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What is a PSA test?
Currently, one of the most common tools in the early diagnosis of prostate cancer is the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test. This test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA in a patient's blood. An elevated PSA does not always indicate the presence of prostate cancer but provides a guideline for further testing. If the PSA test indicates a need for further testing, your physician will order additional tests to confirm if cancer is present.

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What if I decide to defer treatment?
While the specifics of your disease will determine which treatment offers the best chance of success, "watchful waiting" may be an option when the cancer is small, not causing any symptoms, remains confined to the prostate gland, or if the patient is elderly, frail, or in poor health.  Consult your physician.

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Can lifestyle changes improve my recovery from cancer treatment?
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol will improve your overall health. A nutritious, balanced diet combined with plenty of rest can help speed your recovery. Once you feel rested enough, begin exercising. Family, faith, and outside support groups can give you strength and make a difference in how you cope with your illness.

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A Dosimetrist's Perspective

When our contract with another supplier ended, we turned to NAS Medical to supply our I-125 prostate seeds. Since that time, we have f...
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