At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Arizona (PCIA), we are constantly striving to bring the most advanced and effective treatments to our patients. We are excited to announce a new addition to our array of services: In-Office Brachytherapy. This cutting-edge procedure, now available right here in our office, represents a significant leap forward in prostate cancer treatment. By utilizing local anesthesia, we have eliminated the need for a hospital or surgery center, making the process more convenient and less daunting for our patients.
What is In-Office Brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy where radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate gland. These seeds deliver high doses of radiation to cancer cells with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Traditionally, this procedure required a hospital stay or a visit to a surgery center, often involving general anesthesia. However, with advancements in medical technology and techniques, we can now offer this treatment in the comfort of our office.
Dr. Kent Wallner, a pioneer in In-Office Brachytherapy, recently visited our facility to provide specialized training. Under his expert guidance, I have learned the intricacies of this procedure, ensuring that our patients receive the highest standard of care. This training has equipped us to deliver this advanced treatment safely and effectively, maintaining the exceptional level of service that PCIA is known for.
Benefits of In-Office Brachytherapy
The transition to in-office procedures offers several significant benefits for our patients:
- Convenience: Patients no longer need to travel to a hospital or surgery center. The entire procedure is performed in our office, which can significantly reduce the overall time commitment and stress associated with the treatment.
- Local Anesthesia: By using local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia, the risks associated with anesthesia are minimized. Patients remain awake and comfortable throughout the procedure, which typically takes just a few hours.
- Quick Recovery: The minimally invasive nature of brachytherapy means that patients can usually return to their normal activities within a few days. The recovery process is generally faster and less painful compared to more invasive surgical options.
- Precision and Effectiveness: The radioactive seeds used in brachytherapy deliver high doses of radiation directly to the prostate tumor. This targeted approach ensures that cancer cells are effectively destroyed while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Learn More
We understand that undergoing cancer treatment can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our website features a comprehensive Q&A section that addresses common questions about In-Office Brachytherapy. Additionally, we have included a detailed article that explains the procedure, its benefits, and what patients can expect during and after treatment.
At the Prostate Cancer Institute of Arizona, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care using the latest advancements in medical technology. We believe that In-Office Brachytherapy represents a significant improvement in the treatment of prostate cancer, and we are proud to offer this service to our patients. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to help you on your journey to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Is Office Brachytherapy?
A: Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy is the most conformal treatment for men with localized prostate cancer. This treatment is typically performed in the hospital OR or Ambulatory Surgery Center. However, this treatment can now be performed at your doctor’s office.
Q: What is In-Office Brachytherapy?
A: This is a technique where a prostate seed implant (LDR Brachytherapy) is performed using local anesthesia only (rather than general anesthesia). The local anesthesia is liquid lidocaine that is injected using tiny needles into the treatment region before performing the prostate seed implant. Therefore, this treatment can be performed in the office rather than the hospital.
Q: Is In-Office Brachytherapy a new procedure?
A: No, this treatment has been performed for nearly 30 years. Dr. Kent Wallner is the doctor who pioneered this treatment and has performed over 5000 cases with excellent success. He has published describing this treatment in several peer reviewed articles and in his textbooks. PCIA has recently adopted this technique into their service line and now being offered at all locations.
Q: Does In-Office Brachytherapy hurt?
A: No, this treatment is not painful. The local anesthesia technique results in complete numbness of the treatment region. So you don’t feel any pain.
Q: Are there any other medicines used for In-Office Brachytherapy besides local anesthesia?
A: It is possible to take oral medicines (such as halcion, valium) to keep you calm and sleepy. You can also receive laughing gas through this procedure. However, these medicines are optional and not required.
Q: How long does In-Office Brachytherapy take?
A: The treatment takes approximately 30 minutes. Generally, this treatment is quicker than the traditional treatment process performed under general anesthesia in the hospital or surgery center.
Q: What are the advantages of In-Office Brachytherapy?
A: There are many advantages of not undergoing general anesthesia. The risks of general anesthesia are now avoided. Many men who have lung or heart problems are commonly not good candidates for general anesthesia and therefore are unable to have a prostate seed implant. However, with In-Office Brachytherapy, this treatment is now possible. You also don’t have to deal with the side effects commonly associated with general anesthesia. You can drive yourself to the procedure and drive home yourself as well!
Q: Who are candidates for In-Office Brachytherapy?
A: Practically, anyone who is a candidate for prostate seed implant under general anesthesia is a candidate for this treatment using local anesthesia only. Call PCIA (1-800-282-0753) and make an appointment today to see if you are a candidate!
