Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small structure that is part of a man's reproductive organs. Radiation therapy--beams of energy used to kill cancer cells--is one form of treatment for prostate cancer.
Types
Radiation therapy for prostate cancer consists of two types: external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy. According to the Mayo Clinic, EBRT involves high-energy X-rays that focus on and kill the prostate cancer cells. In brachytherapy, radioactive seeds implanted in the prostate tissues kill the cancer cells.
Time Frame
According to the Mayo Clinic, EBRT is given 5 days a week for 8 weeks. Each treatment lasts only 10 minutes. In brachytherapy, the radioactive seeds emit low doses of radiation constantly.
Side Effects
Some side effects of EBRT include fatigue, impotence, appetite loss and blood in the urine. Side effects of brachytherapy include pain, swelling and bruising of the penis or scrotum.
Considerations
According to Medline Plus, radiation therapy is a treatment option for prostate cancer patients for whom surgery is risky. For example, a patient may have a preexisting health condition that is a contraindication to surgery.
Procedure
In EBRT, radiation beams are aimed at the target site for 15 to 25 minutes. In brachytherapy, 40 to 100 radioactive seeds are implanted in the prostate gland under general anesthesia. The procedure lasts 1 to 2 hours.
