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Depending on the seed selected, brachytherapy can use two different radioactive
substances to fight cancer. The older, iodine-based seeds (I-125), employed
when brachytherapy was originally developed, are still in use today. Science
evolved, however, resulting in the development of palladium-103 (Pd-103) seeds
(TheraSeed® treatment). The palladium composition of the
TheraSeed® device offers distinct advantages over iodine-based
seeds.
TheraSeed® Treatment Advantages:
| • |
Works two to three times faster than iodine-based seeds for better control of
rapidly dividing cells.
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| • |
Most side effects diminish within two to three weeks, compared to 60 to 90 days
with iodine-based implants.
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| • |
Patients usually experience significantly fewer complications than those receiving iodine seeds.4
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With Either Type of Seed:
| • |
The most commonly reported side effects are short-term urinary or obstructive
symptoms within the first few weeks after the implant procedure.
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| • |
Short-term side effects include frequent urination and burning.
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| • |
Rectal irritation and bleeding may occur.
|
| • |
Tenderness and bruising may occur from the procedure, rarely requiring pain
medication.
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