Low-Dose Prostate Radiation Delivers Strong Results Over Traditional Therapies

SOUTHLAKE, Texas - June 3, 2015 - PRLog -- Helping men avoid the potential pitfalls of more radical prostate cancer treatment has long been the calling card for low-dose radiation therapy. When this procedure is successful, men can reduce the risks associated with surgery while still enjoying a potential cure for their disease. Questions about the use of low-dose radiation versus more traditional external beam options have lingered in the minds of some, however. New research indicates that the lower-dose path, when advisable, may prove to be twice as beneficial as more standard radiation protocols.

“The latest research supporting the benefits of prostate seed implant therapy sheds more light on this procedure’s effectiveness when compared with dose-escalated external beam radiotherapy,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon of Southlake Oncology. “The Canadian-based study discovered that there is a significant advantage associated with brachytherapy when it comes to long-term survival.”

Brachytherapy involves the injection of tiny radioactive pellets, or seeds, directly into the prostate itself. These seeds work by delivering a steady low dose of radiation directly to the source of the cancer while working to effectively protect as much surrounding healthy issue as possible. This particular form of therapy does not involve surgery nor do the seeds have to be removed. They simply dissolve on their own. Aside from effectiveness, this therapy enables men to return to their normal routines faster than other treatment options, making it a favored choice for many men and their doctors.

The latest study adds to a growing body of evidence that supports the benefits of brachytherapy for effective prostate cancer treatment. Researchers focused in on 398 men for the latest study and found significant benefits long-term benefits. At the five-year mark, patients treated with seed implants had a much higher rate of progression-free survival than those who underwent more traditional radiation treatments.

“While prostate seed implants are an excellent choice for treating many cases of prostate cancer, it’s important for men to explore all their options closely with their doctors,” says Dr. Echt. “Should seed therapy be indicated, research is clearly showing this particular treatment path does enjoy tremendous results.”

About the Center:

A comprehensive cancer care center with locations in Southlake and Irving, Texas, Southlake Oncology (http://www.southlakeoncology.com/) offers specialties in colon and breast cancers. Southlake Oncology takes a unique approach to cancer care, wherein they provide everything from traditional, state-of-the-art medical oncology care along with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and meditation to reduce symptoms of treatment - all in pursuit of their ultimate goal which is to treat the whole person, rather than just the disease itself.