Preliminary observations on the results of combined temporary 192iridium implantation and external beam irradiation for carcinoma of the prostate.

We treated 43 patients with adenocarcinoma of the prostate confined to the pelvis with a combination of staging pelvic lymphadenectomy, temporary implantation of the prostate with 192iridium and external beam irradiation. The procedure was relatively safe with low early morbidity. However, there were significant late complications. Of these patients 29 had needle biopsy of the prostate 1 year after completion of therapy and 15 demonstrated residual tumor. Clinical stage C and poorly differentiated tumors were not well controlled.