I don't mean to be a stick in the mud but I have had TERRIBLE effects to Cesium 131 prostate seed inplant. I was treated with Cesium 131 over a year ago and just got out of the hospital for the fifth time since the procedure due to severe radiation burns to the entire colo-rectal area. I was first hospitalized for three weeks only two weeks post implant. I have since suffered terribly with unending abdominal pain, passing of rectal tissue, bleeding, weakness, fatigue, loss of work, depression, surgery for severe adhesion repair, kidney problems, gall bladder removal (undetermined if directly related but possible), hemorhoids (sp) and many other side effects.
I know that the best of intentons were in effect when this treatment was approved but feel stongly that more studies should be done so no one else suffers like I have. I know most of those treated have had good results but to have just one more suffer like I have would be terrible.
Cesium, as I have learned since my procedure is made from radioactive waste! Experts have told me that due to that issue, exact dosages are almost impossible.
In my situation I was treated with 103 seeds (which is about 1/3 more than average I'm told) and then the radiation doseage was supposidly too strong to begin with causing irreversible damage. I have been told that even after all this time, the seeds may STILL be giving off radiation which should have dissipated after 6-8 weeks after the procedure.
Please concider other alternatives before selecting this procedure. I would hate to have anyone go through what I have.