FAQ
Radiosurgery and Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT)
IMRT requires at least 20 daily treatments in 4 weeks whereas Radiosurgery is completed in 5 sessions every other weekday over 1 and a half weeks. Lower daily radiation doses are used in IMRT as the beams are less focussed than radiosurgery. The amount of rectum and bladder radiated with Radiosurgery is lower than IMRT, with potential reduction in long term side effects. The presence of a radiation oncologist familiar with radiosurgery is essential during every session to ensure the targeting is spot on.
Radiosurgery and Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy whereby needles and tubes are inserted into the prostate to allow release of radiation from within. It usually also involves a hospital stay, anaesthesia and insertion of a urinary catheter. There is a small risk of bleeding, infection and anaesthetic complications with brachytherapy. SBRT is a completely painless and non-invasive technique that is done in the outpatient setting.
Radiosurgery and Proton Therapy
Proton therapy is a form of radiotherapy that uses proton beams instead of x-rays. The unique feature of the proton beam is the ability to control how far it penetrates the body. Presently, there is no evidence that the proton therapy for the prostate is superior to IMRT or Radiosurgery in curing prostate cancer or reducing radiation side effects.~