What is brachytherapy?

Brachytherapy is a sophisticated and highly effective form of cancer treatment, particularly prevalent in the realm of urology. Brachytherapy entails accurately positioning radioactive sources either directly within or near the tumour location. This focused technique enables the administration of concentrated radiation doses to cancerous cells while mitigating harm to nearby healthy tissue. While frequently utilised in addressing prostate cancer, brachytherapy can also be applied in the treatment of various other urological malignancies.

When is brachytherapy recommended?

Brachytherapy is recommended as a primary treatment option for localised prostate cancer, especially in cases where the cancer is confined to the prostate gland and has not spread to other parts of the body. It may also be recommended as a part of a multimodal treatment approach, alongside surgery or external beam radiation therapy, depending on the individual patient's circumstances and cancer stage. Additionally, brachytherapy may be considered for recurrent prostate cancer after previous treatments.

How does Dr Ramloutan perform brachytherapy?

Dr Ramloutan employs a personalised approach to each patient, carefully evaluating their medical history, cancer stage, and overall health to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

In performing the brachytherapy procedure, Dr Ramloutan employs cutting-edge imaging modalities like ultrasound or MRI to identify the prostate gland and the specific tumour within it precisely. Subsequently, he skillfully implants minuscule radioactive seeds directly into the prostate tissue, a process conducted under either local or general anaesthesia. These seeds gradually emit radiation, precisely targeting and eradicating cancerous cells while safeguarding neighbouring healthy tissues from excessive exposure.

Dr Ramloutan's meticulous approach ensures optimal placement of the radioactive seeds, maximising treatment efficacy while minimising potential side effects. Throughout the entire process, Dr Ramloutan and his dedicated team provide comprehensive support and guidance to patients, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care and support throughout their cancer journey.

What is a radical prostatectomy?

The goal of radical prostatectomy is to eradicate prostate cancer completely by removing the cancer-containing prostate.

When is a radical prostatectomy recommended?

The primary reason for a radical prostatectomy is to eradicate all cancer from the prostate. A radical prostatectomy is considered when the cancer remains localised within the prostate gland.

How does Dr Ramloutan perform a radical prostatectomy?

After the anaesthetic is administered, Dr Ramloutan will place a catheter through the bladder to help remove excess urine. He then creates an incision that runs from the navel to the pubic region. Normally, a lymph node dissection is done. The nerve bundles are gently removed from the prostate along with the seminal vesicles if necessary. Afterwards, he prepares to remove the prostate gland and then inserts a drain to release excess fluid. A patient’s medical aid scheme allows this operation to be performed, as well, either laparoscopically or robotically.

What is a robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy?

• Robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: A robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is an advanced, less intrusive surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland. A state-of-the-art robotic surgical system is used to remove the prostate through several tiny incisions instead of a single, large incision.
  
  This surgery has two versions-the radical technique is to treat prostate cancer, and the simple version is to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy.