Brachytherapy is less likely to affect the bowel than external beam radiotherapy, although the risk of urinary problems can be higher. Up to one in seven men may not be able to pass urine after the procedure and may need to have a catheter inserted for a time. Some men find that they have pain or discomfort on passing water, need to pass urine more often or have a weaker urine stream. This is usually due to the radiation from the seeds in the prostate and improves over 6-12 months as the seeds lose some of their radioactivity. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding caffeine may help to reduce these effects.
Treatment is given to the affected bone or area.
It may be given as a single treatment, or may be divided into a series of smaller treatments. Many men notice some pain relief within a couple of days, while others may have to wait three or four weeks. Painkilling drugs can still be taken regularly if necessary. The radiotherapy staff will explain your treatment and the possible side effects with you beforehand. If the spread of the cancer is not confined to one area you may be given treatment known as hemibody irradiation.