Available Treatments
Prostate Seed Impantation
To help effectively and safely treat prostate cancer, the Cancer Institute of New Jersey at Cooper offers prostate seed implantation as part of a wide array of prostate care services.
During the procedure, radioactive seeds about the size of rice grains are inserted permanently into the prostate gland. There, they emit a tightly confined dose of radiation to destroy the cancer cells. These seeds typically contain iodine-125 or palladium-103. Because the seeds are inserted directly into the tumor site, they are able to kill the cancer with little damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The number of seeds used in this procedure depends upon the size of the tumor and the overall health of the patient. The physician uses a "live" ultrasound image to determine the actual number of seeds needed, as well as the appropriate positioning within the gland.
Seed implantation takes place in the operating room. After careful positioning of the patient and immobilization of the gland (to prevent unwanted orn movement during the procedure), physicians use a live ultrasound image to plan the treatment. A radiation physicist and a radiation oncologist determine actual position and placement of the seeds.
For more information about Radiation Oncology at Cooper University Hospital or to make an appointment with a Cooper University Hospital physician at an office near you, please call 1-800-8-COOPER to speak with a member of our physician referral and information service.
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VariSeed™ Treatment Planning: Treating Cancer From The Inside Out
Brachytherapy treats cancer using precisely placed radioactive implants in tumors. The implants can be permanent or temporary, but the goal is the same: Conform the radiation dose to the size and shape of the target and limit side effects by sparing the surrounding healthy anatomy.
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