Brachytherapy is so named due to the Latin term, brachy, meaning short. It refers to the short distance that the radiation has to travel to affect the targeted area. Brachytherapy is given in the form of radioactive pellets or “seeds” which are implanted into the prostate.

There are two types of prostate brachytherapy: permanent and temporary. Both are done in an operating room and require some type of anesthesia. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans or MRI help guide the placement of the pellets. All implants are carefully planned by the brachytherapist prior to the procedure. Computers calculate the exact dose of radiation to insure that the cancer receives the optimal dose while minimizing radiation to the surrounding healthy tissues.

Atlanta Oncology Associates was among the first groups in Atlanta to perform permanent and temporary prostate implants. Over the past 15 years, our physicians have performed more than 1,500 procedures. These numbers include permanent implants using either Iodine 125 or Palladium seeds, as well as, the more recent HDR temporary implant technique.

Having managed treatment for hundreds of men, we have great expertise in tailoring the different treatment options to the specific patient’s needs. No other group has our range of experience.

In a recent Phase I study of patients at our Northside/Alpharetta Cancer Treatment Center and Cancer Center of Gwinnett, those treated in the time period from May 1999 through December 2004 were evaluated. Using the currently accepted definition of PSA relapse, 94.5% of permanent seed patients and 98% of HDR patients have experienced survival free of relapse.

Next: Permanent Seed Implants (LDR)