Astera Prostate Seed Implantation

An Effective Option Pioneered Right Here

At Astera, we use Prostate Seed Implantation as a minimally invasive option to treat prostate cancer. Our radiation oncologists place radioactive seeds in the prostate gland to target cancer cells while maximizing the preservation of healthy tissue. It’s an outpatient procedure that requires general anesthesia, and only takes a few hours. Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 days.

Our doctors are experts in treating prostate cancer patients using Prostate Seed Implantation. In fact, we pioneered its use more than two decades ago.

Is Prostate Seed Implantation Right for You?

Prostate Seed Implantation isn’t for everyone. Our treatment decisions are primarily based on:

  1. Stage
  2. Gleason Score = 6 or less
  3. PSA Level = Less than 10


You Can Trust Our Process

 Step 1: Outpatient consultation with an Astera radiation oncologist, who advises you on the implant option based on your PSA, Gleason score, tumor stage, and other factors.

Step 2: Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS). We place a transducer in the rectum to obtain images of the prostate gland. Once the prostate is visualized, your Astera radiation oncologist works with our radiation physicists to determine precisely where the seeds should be placed. Using a treatment-planning computer, we generate a series of “dose maps” called isodose curves. We “peripherally load” the seeds to minimize the radiation dose to the urethra, reducing the risk of urinary side effects.

Step 3: The implant procedure. Our doctors operate while you’re under general or spinal anesthesia. Using transrectal ultrasound guidance, we implant radioactive seeds into the prostate through the perineum. Fluoroscopy confirms accurate seed placement. After the procedure, we’ll monitor you for several hours. Typically, we discharge patients to go home on the same day.

We Have the Experience and Skill To Do It Right

The outcome of Prostate Seed Implantation is highly operator-dependent. It’s crucial that your radiation oncologist is experienced and proficient with this procedure. At Astera, we’re among the most experienced anywhere and have been instrumental in pioneering this treatment option since 1997.

10-Year Data Shows Excellent Results

The Northwest Tumor Institute has documented excellent 10-year follow-up data for Prostate Seed Implantation. Their long-term outcomes were comparable to those of external beam radiation therapy and surgery. Although 20-year data is not yet mature, Prostate Seed Implantation appears to be just as effective as surgery or external beam radiation therapy for early-stage prostate cancers.

Your Side Effects Managed

A common misconception among prospective patients is that Prostate Seed Implantation has fewer side effects than external beam radiation therapy. The truth is, nearly all patients experience some side effects from the procedure, including inflammation of the urethra. But rest assured, when side effects occur, we help you manage them with advanced care and personalized patient support.

To learn more about Prostate Seed Implantation to treat prostate cancer, or to schedule a consultation, call 609-757-8653. Or, contact us using our easy online form.