Prostate Cancer
Prostate Seed Implant: is brachytherapy as effective as surgery?
What is the short answer?
For many men with low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer, seed implants and surgery give similar cancer control.
The difference is in side effects and recovery.
What else should I know?
Seeds avoid surgery but may cause urinary symptoms.
Surgery gives full lab results on the prostate, but early leaking is more common.
Schedule a visit to compare both options for your cancer.
What happens at a visit?
In Rockdale County, your visits with us take place at our Conyers Clinic (1366 Wellbrook Circle Suite B, Conyers, GA 30012), and we’re glad to help you book.
How do our urologists approach this?
Because seeds and surgery can give similar cancer control for many men, our urologists focus on the differences that matter to you. That includes urinary symptoms, the chance of early leaking, recovery time and what happens if treatment is needed later. We also explain where active surveillance and HIFU fit. We’ll compare the options openly and support your decision.
What happens at a visit?
For your Conyers visit, gather the biopsy report, MRI and every PSA value you have. We’ll go over your cancer’s risk level and your current urinary symptoms, then walk through each option side by side.
How should I prepare?
Gather the biopsy report, your MRI and past PSA numbers, and jot down your questions. If you’d like a family member’s input, bring them along so they can hear the comparison too.
When should I call?
Call us if your PSA changes while you’re deciding, or if you’d like another visit to talk it over with a family member.
What do patients often ask?
These are the questions we hear most, each with a short answer.
Does surgery tell you more about the cancer?
Surgery gives full lab results on the prostate, which some men value when making their choice.
Which has more early leaking?
Early leaking is more common after surgery, while seeds may cause urinary symptoms such as frequency.
Can I take time to decide?
Yes. We’ll set up another conversation whenever you’re ready.
Is there a video on this?
Dr. Vahan Kassabian talks about prostate cancer in this Advanced Urology session.
- Watch: Lunch and Learn with Dr. Vahan Kassabian about Prostate Cancer What the video covers: A lunch-and-learn talk on prostate cancer with Dr. Vahan Kassabian.
Where can I learn more?
For general information. It can’t replace an exam. More Rockdale articles