My belief is that Brachytherapy when appropriate is a great way of treating low and intermediate risk cancer. I think the key is making certain that the treatment protocol matches the disease profile. That means understanding your decipher score and making certain that you got the best biopsy possible so that you haven’t been under diagnosed.

If I lived in the greater Minneapolis area, I would strongly consider MAYO for brachytherapy. From what I’ve read, they’ve got a great track record with this treatment modality. Here’s a link to Mayo’s page, which explains a lot. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/prostate-brachytherapy/about/pac-20384949

As far as my experience, I never had any difficulty passing urine, but I understand that can be a problem for some people. I experienced some mild pain and burning when urinating for a couple weeks; nothing significant there. I cycle a lot and I think I was off the bike for 6 weeks. I experienced some mild diarrhea and some unexpected urgency to defecate for the first 10 or 12 days. I was advised to abstain from sex for a short period of time. I’m thinking three weeks or so. I had some mild discomfort when ejaculating initially, but that passed pretty quickly. Had ZERO problems with ED for 2 years and mild ED starting in the 3rd year post treatment as I approached 68. Not sure if that’s a result of brachytherapy or age.

One area that my doctor failed in as far as I’m concerned is to inform me thoroughly as to what to expect. That was a disappointment. Regardless, where you get treated, I recommend that you make a list of questions you have and bring it with for your consultation.

Good luck with whatever you choose and please keep us posted on your progress! - Bob