ABSTRACT
The prostate brachytherapy procedure developed by the Seattle group included a volume study as an integral part of the process. During this preoperative procedure, images of the prostate were obtained at 5 mm intervals from base to apex.1 These images were then used to perform preoperative treatment planning. The required positions of the seeds and needles were determined during this process. Needles were preloaded prior to the implant procedure itself as determined by the preplan. During the implant procedure, the patient was positioned in similar manner to the position during the preoperative volume study and the prostate position was reproduced. Then, the preloaded needles were placed into the prostate in the predetermined positions under ultrasound guidance.
