This week's artwork was donated by Sharon, a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia . Any information would be helpful. It is basically a combination of interstitial radioactive seed brachytherapy followed by conformal external beam radiation in an attempt to eradicate the prostate gland without surgery. Both methods of radiation have been in existence for years, although the combination of brachytherapy and external beam radiotherapy is a newer concept. Some people argue that this is probably overkill for some early stage diseases.
Patient selection is the key.
The best candidates for this procedure probably are the ones with locally advanced diseases. However, long-term follow up is needed before we draw any definitive conclusions. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.