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A Pilot Study of High-Dose Rate Brachytherapy as Definitive Management for Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer
[Protocol 07-120]
- Full Title :
- A PILOT STUDY OF HIGH DOSE RATE BRACHYTHERAPY AS DEFINITIVE MANAGEMENT FOR INTERMEDIATE RISK PROSTATE CANCER
- Purpose :
The purpose of this study is to evaluate a type of radiation treatment called high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy for treating intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Brachytherapy involves the placement of radioactive sources in or near cancer tissue. This approach is different from another type of treatment called external beam radiation, where a special x-ray machine delivers radiation through the body to the cancer. Because brachytherapy gives radiation directly to the cancer, radiation can be given safely in a more concentrated way.
At MSKCC, intermediate-risk prostate cancer is treated with both brachytherapy and external beam radiation. However, external beam radiation may not be necessary in this case if a high enough dose of radiation can be delivered using brachytherapy alone. Patients in this study, therefore, will be treated with HDR brachytherapy as their only treatment. The amount of radiation given per treatment will be higher than usual because no external beam radiation will be given. Patients will receive only four radiation treatments given over two days.
The purpose of this feasibility study is to assess the safety of HDR brachytherapy to treat intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Researchers will also look at how many years patients remain free of disease and how the treatment affects their sexual function.
- Eligibility :
To be eligible for this study, patients must meet several criteria, including but not limited to the following:
- Patients must have a confirmed diagnosis of intermediate-risk adenocarcinoma of the prostate (PSA of 10-20 ng/ml or Gleason score greater than 7, and/or stage greater than 2b/2c).
- Patients may not have had prior transurethral resection of the prostate or previous pelvic radiation therapy.
For more information and to inquire about eligibility for this study, please contact Dr. Yoshiya Yamada at 212-639-2950.
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