Martell K, Kollmeier MA. Complications and side effects of high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy.
Brachytherapy 2021;
20:966-975. [PMID:
33612395 DOI:
10.1016/j.brachy.2020.10.007]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To describe technical challenges and complications encountered during and after high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) and review management of these complications.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
The authors performed a systematic review of the literature on toxicities encountered after prostate HDR-BT +/- external beam radiotherapy. A total of 397 studies were identified, of which 64 were included. A focused review of literature regarding the management of acute and late toxicities also performed.
RESULTS
Most acute toxicities include grade 0-2 genitourinary and gastrointestinal toxicity. Overall, Grade 3+ Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events toxicity after HDR-BT was low [genitourinary: 0-1%; gastrointestinal 0-3%]. Rates of fistula formation were <1%, and radiation cystitis/proctitis were <14% and more commonly reported in cohorts treated with HDR-BT boost and external beam radiotherapy.
CONCLUSIONS
HDR-BT both as monotherapy or combined with external beam radiotherapy for prostate cancer is well tolerated. Serious complications are rare.
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