HDR Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Brachytherapy as a monotherapy treatment is highly effective for localized prostate cancer, traditionally being delivered to the whole prostate gland. Lately, low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy has been increasingly replaced by high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy treatment schemes. While brachytherapy's oncologic outcomes are excellent, it is not without incidence adverse effects including urinary, rectal, and sexual toxicities that affect the patient's quality of life. This study will incorporate HDR monotherapy treatment option for early stages and favourable risk prostate cancer. Additionally, we aim to evaluate the role of focal HDR brachytherapy for well-defined disease based on multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). This approach may offer an option of reducing the treatment toxicities while maintaining oncologic outcomes when compared with whole-gland therapy. Advantages in quality of life could be exhibited in the form of reduced urinary discomfort and incontinence, rectal symptoms, and improved erectile and prostatic gland function. This study would be particularly relevant in the current era of earlier localized prostate cancer detection, where newer imaging modalities (e.g. mpMRI) become a routine component of patient care.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on anti-coagulative therapy (blood thinners), you may need to temporarily stop them during the brachytherapy treatment.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment HDR Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer?
Research shows that HDR brachytherapy, whether targeted to specific areas or applied to the whole prostate gland, is effective in controlling prostate cancer. It allows precise targeting of cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, and has been shown to improve outcomes in localized prostate cancer.12345
Is HDR Brachytherapy safe for treating prostate cancer?
How is HDR Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer different from other treatments?
HDR Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer is unique because it can target specific areas of the prostate, reducing the radiation dose to surrounding organs and potentially leading to fewer side effects. This focal approach, often guided by advanced imaging techniques like MRI and ultrasound, allows for precise treatment of cancerous areas while sparing healthy tissue.13689
Eligibility Criteria
Men over 18 with early-stage, low to favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer can join this study. They should be in good health (ECOG status 0-2), have a prostate size <80cc, and no history of severe rectal conditions or certain autoimmune diseases. No prior radiation or brachytherapy for the prostate is allowed, and they must not have any contraindications to MRI or anesthesia.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive HDR brachytherapy, either whole-gland or targeted focal therapy based on MRI findings
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety, effectiveness, and quality of life improvements after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Targeted Focal HDR Brachytherapy
- Whole-gland HDR Brachytherapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University Health Network, Toronto
Lead Sponsor