This handout explains what happens when a prostate seed implant (PSI) is done. It talks about what a PSI is and how your doctor determines if a PSI is right for you. It also briefly reviews the PSI process.
What is a Prostate Seed Implant (PSI)?
A Prostate Seed Implant is a type of treatment for prostate cancer. It uses radiation “seeds”. The “seeds” are put into the prostate gland by your radiation doctor. They remain in place permanently. The seeds spread cancer-killing radiation to a small area. Large parts of the bladder and rectum are avoided. Patients who undergo a PSI must follow radiation safety precautions. These are explained in HFFY # 6567 Radiation Safety for PSI.
overtime.
Is a PSI right for me?
Your radiation doctor will determine whether a PSI is right for you. Many factors are involved. He or she will talk to you about these factors. If the radiation doctor thinks you may be a candidate for this type of treatment, and you want to go ahead, we will begin the PSI process.
The PSI Process
A person having a PSI takes part in a 3-phase process. This process takes place over a number of weeks. The first phase of the process is called the “Work-Up”. In this phase, various issues are addressed to make sure that a PSI is right for you. These issues are explained in HFFY # 5508, The PSI Work-Up. The PSI Work-Up may show that a PSI is not right for you. If this is the case, the radiation doctor will talk to you about other treatment options. The second phase of the process involves tasks that you must complete before the day of the procedure. These are explained in HFFY # 5731, How to Prepare for your Prostate Seed Implant. The third phase of the process speaks to what happens after the PSI is done. These issues are explained in HFFY #6568, What to Expect after a Prostate Seed Implant.
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