A simple method to stabilize the prostate during transperineal prostate brachytherapy.
OBJECTIVE
The authors report a simple, remarkably effective method to limit prostatic motion during prostate brachytherapy.


METHODS
Two 18-ga. stainless-steel needles (the same type used for source placement) are inserted transperineally, obliquely into the prostate, using finger and fluoroscopic guidance. These needles are left in place during the implant procedure. In our experience, maximum lateral displacement is decreased from about 1 cm to 0.2 mm, while craniocaudal motion is virtually eliminated.


CONCLUSIONS
The method described here is simple to perform and does not require specialized equipment.
Dattoli
M
M
Department of Radiology, Center for Cancer Care, University Community Hospital, Tampa, FL 33613, USA.
Waller
K
K
D001918:Brachytherapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D008297:Male; D011467:Prostate; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*