Cystoscopy Techniques in Prostate Brachytherapy: Effects on Urinary Function

(Recruitment Complete)

This research is being done primarily to compare the impact of flexible and rigid cystoscopy on urinary symptoms following seed implantation.  This study is also being done to find out whether cystoscopy, itself, is necessary at all. 

A cystoscopy is the insertion of either a rigid or a flexible cystoscope into your urethra.  It is a common, though not universal practice, that a cystoscopy is performed at the close of a seed implant procedure.  This is done in order to check the condition of your urethra and bladder.  The choice of whether to use a flexible or rigid cystoscope is normally made by the urologist performing the procedure.  Some physicians think that the insertion of a cystoscope may irritate the urethra, causing some of the urinary pain or discomfort that often occurs following an implant.  This study, therefore, will attempt to determine if there are any significant differences between rigid and flexible cystoscopy in terms of urinary discomfort

Physicians also question whether cystoscopy, itself, is necessary since it is rare that serious problems are found in the urethra or bladder after an implant procedure.  This study will document the frequency and nature of any problems found with post-implant cystoscopy and compare these results to the experience of patients who do not undergo a cystoscopy following an implant.  That some patients will not have a cystoscopy under the terms of this study is an investigational aspect of this research.

Your participation in the study will begin with your admission to the hospital on the day of your implant.  It will end with your follow-up visit to the Seattle Prostate Institute the following day.

For further information please contact: research@seattleprostate.com