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Inova Loudoun Hospital Now Offering Radioactive Seed Implant for Prostate Cancer Patients

September 18, 2007
Procedure Targets Cancer, Limits Exposure to Surrounding Tissue

Leesburg, VA -- Inova Loudoun Hospital is now offering radioactive seed implantation for patients with early-stage prostate cancer.  Using radioactive seeds implanted directly at the site of the tumor, the procedure spares surrounding healthy tissue with fewer side-effects than standard therapies.

 “Prostate seed implant is a much more convenient option for some patients who would otherwise undergo radical surgery, or have to return to the hospital daily for eight and a half weeks of radiation treatment,” said  Kin-Sing Au, MD, radiation oncologist, Mary Elizabeth Miller Radiation Oncology Center at Inova Loudoun Hospital.  He has performed over 400 such implants in the last nine years.  “We are pleased that we can now offer our patients another option in their treatment plan close to home in Loudoun County.”

 The procedure, also known as brachytherapy, is performed on an outpatient basis by a radiation oncologist, urologist and diagnostic technician. Prior to surgery, patients first undergo a prostate volume study, which generates a 3-D computerized plan of the implant.  Patients later return for surgery, which involves delivering radioactive seeds – about the size of a grain of rice – into the prostate gland.  Surgeons deliver the seeds via small needles inserted in the perineum using ultrasound guidance.  The seeds remain permanently in the prostate, delivering targeted, low-dose radiation for several months. 

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete.  The final step for the patient involves a CT scan of the pelvic region one-to-two months post surgery.  

 “Prostate seed implant has proven to be a highly effective treatment compared to the gold standard treatments of radical prostatectomy and external beam radiation,” said Walter O’Brien, MD, urologist, Inova Loudoun Hospital.  “Studies show it may offer comparable results with fewer side effects, like incontinence or impotence.” 

 The Mary Elizabeth Miller Radiation Oncology Center at Inova Loudoun Hospital offers a full treatment plan for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.  In addition to offering a sophisticated level of clinical treatment, the Center provides education and support for patients and families in a warm environment.

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit health care system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services including emergency and urgent care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova's mission is to improve the health of the diverse community we serve through excellence in patient care, education and research.

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