A simple method to stabilize the prostate during transperineal prostate brachytherapy

Purpose: The authors report a simple, remarkably effective method to limit prostatic motion during prostate brachytherapy. Methods and Materials: 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. Conclusion: The method described here is simple to perform and does not require specialized equipment. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.