LDR Brachytherapy Deserves a Second Look, Urology Leaders Say

In a recent UroChat discussion, E. David Crawford, MD, spoke with Jason M. Hafron, MD, and Michael Granieri, MD, about renewed interest in low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy for localized prostate cancer. The panel described LDR brachytherapy as one of the most efficient definitive treatments available — delivered in a single outpatient procedure with excellent oncologic outcomes in carefully selected patients with low- or intermediate-risk disease, good urinary function, and smaller prostate volumes.

The discussion also covered strategies to broaden eligibility, including prostate artery embolization, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, and androgen deprivation therapy to reduce prostate size before implantation. The speakers emphasized that rebuilding urology–radiation oncology partnerships, along with physician leadership and operational support, has made it possible to integrate LDR brachytherapy successfully into ambulatory surgery centers. Their conclusion: with renewed education, collaboration, and patient counseling, LDR brachytherapy can reclaim its place as an important option for men with localized prostate cancer.