PROSTATE
CANCER
FAQS

Treatment options for prostate cancer include active surveillance, surgery (prostatectomy), radiation therapy (external beam or brachytherapy), hormone therapy, chemotherapy, cryotherapy, immunotherapy, and/or targeted therapy. The choice of treatment depends on various factors such as cancer stage, grade, and patient preferences.¹

The prostate cancer therapy decision is based on various factors, including the cancer stage, grade, overall health, and patient preferences.¹  Healthcare professionals, including urologists and radiation oncologists, work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans.

Common prostate cancer radiation treatments include external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), brachytherapy (internal radiation), and radiopharmaceuticals.² Each treatment approach has its unique benefits and considerations.

• External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer involves directing high-energy radiation beams from outside the body to the prostate gland, precisely targeting and destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.²

• Brachytherapy for prostate cancer is a type of prostate cancer radiation therapy where radioactive seeds or pellets are placed directly into the prostate gland. These seeds emit radiation, treating the cancer while minimizing radiation exposure to nearby tissues.²

• Radiopharmaceuticals are drugs that carry radioactive elements. They are given by injection into a vein and travel through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells. Once they reach cancer cells, they emit radiation to kill or damage those cells. The radiation used is short-range, which helps limit damage to nearby healthy tissue.²

Prior to a prostate cancer radiation treatment session, you may undergo a treatment planning session where specialized imaging scans, such as CT or MRI, are taken to precisely map out the treatment area. This process helps ensure accurate radiation delivery and may involve theuse of immobilization devices and fiducial markers.

Prior to prostate cancer radiation therapy, patients may undergo simulation, where imaging scans and measurements are taken to plan the treatment. This step helps determine the exact position and dosage of radiation to ensure accurate and effective treatment. Additionally, patients may also receive fiducial markers and/or a rectal spacer like Barrigel™ rectal spacer prior to beginning radiation treatment.

Fiducial markers are are tiny metal markers placed in or near the prostate to help guide prostate radiation therapy. These markers act as reference points for accurate tumor targeting and ensure precise radiation delivery to the intended area. If you are also receiving a rectal spacer like Barrigel™ spacer prior to radiation therapy, your doctor may implant the fiducial markers at the same time.

The prostate cancer radiation treatment team typically includes a radiation oncologist, radiation therapist, medical physicist, dosimetrist, and radiation oncology nurse. Each member plays a crucial role in delivering safe and effective radiation therapy, coordinating treatment, and providing support throughout the process.

A radiation oncologist is a specialized doctor who oversees radiation therapy. They work closely with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan, determine the appropriate radiation technique, monitor progress, and manage the patient response during treatment.

Yes, prostate cancer radiation therapy can be combined with other treatments depending on the individual case. For instance, it may be used in combination with hormone therapy to enhance effectiveness or as a follow-up to surgery in certain situations.² The decision is based on the patient’s specific needs and the stage of cancer.

The number of radiation treatments for prostate cancer therapy you receive depends on the specific treatment approach and individual circumstances.

Side effects of prostate cancer radiation therapy may include fatigue, urinary changes, erectile dysfunction, skin irritation, or bowel changes such as increased frequency, loose stools, or rectal discomfort.² However, advances in treatment planning and radiation technology, such as Barrigel™ rectal spacer, have significantly reduced the risk and severity of these side effects and they are usually manageable and resolve over time with appropriate management strategies.

Radiation proctitis refers to inflammation and damage to the lining of the rectum as a result of prostate cancer radiation therapy. It can cause symptoms such as rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and discomfort, but various management strategies are available to alleviate these effects.²

Spacers, such as Barrigel™ rectal spacer, are placed between the prostate and rectum tocreate a physical barrier. By increasing the distance between these organs, Barrigel™ rectal spacer helps minimize radiation exposure to the rectum and reduces the risk of treatment-related rectal side effects during prostate cancer radiation therapy.³

In cases of recurrent prostate cancer, radiation therapy can be considered as a treatment option. The decision to repeat radiation therapy depends on various factors, including the location and extent of the recurrence, the patient’s overall health and the amount of radiation that was previously delivered to the rectum.