Principles of the Procedure
This procedure is performed prior to having external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer. Three tiny, inert, gold seeds are inserted into the prostate under ultrasound guidance. This helps to enhance the accuracy of the radiotherapy to the prostate and minimise irritation of surrounding tissues. The procedure is performed under sedation, so you will have no recollection of the event.
Pre-Operative Preparation
You will be admitted on the day of the procedure. No specific preparation is needed apart from fasting from about 6 hours prior to the surgery. An antibiotic course is commonly prescribed, usually commencing the morning of the biopsy. You should continue to take your usual medications unless directed otherwise by your Urologist or his anaesthetist.
Expected Post-Operative Recovery
You will be able to go home on the same day of the procedure, though if you had sedation, you will need to have someone transport you home. You will be given a prescription usually for a 3 day oral antibiotics starting the morning of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection. It is important to complete this course even if you have no symptoms.
Passing blood in your urine, ejaculate or bowel motions in the days following the procedure is a common event, and should be expected. This usually settles (if it occurs) within a few days.
Risks – as per your discussion with your Urologist
Bleeding
Urinary retention (1/100)
Severe infection, requiring re-admission (1/100)
Perineal pain
Sedation risks