The technological advances in real-time ultrasound image guidance for high dose rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy places this treatment modality at the forefront of innovation in radiotherapy.
This review article will explore the rationale for HDR brachytherapy as a highly conformal method of dose delivery and safe dose escalation to the prostate, in addition to the particular radiobiological advantages it has over low dose rate and external beam radiotherapy. The encouraging outcome data and favourable toxicity profile will be discussed before looking at emerging applications for the future and how this procedure will feature alongside stereotactic radiosurgery.
Written by:
Challapalli A, Jones E, Harvey C, Hellawell GO, Mangar SA. Are you the author?
Department of Clinical Oncology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
Reference: Br J Radiol. 2012 Nov;85 Spec No 1:S18-27.
doi: 10.1259/bjr/15403217
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 23118099
UroToday.com Prostate Cancer Section
