An alternative to radical surgery for cancer of the prostate.

We have used the technique of retropubic implantation of 125I seeds, as introduced by Whitmore and associates in 1972, in 12 selected patients with prostatic cancer. Morbidity has been minimal, and the tumor has been effectively controlled. This technique delivers more radiation and has fewer side effects than external cobalt irradiation, and it should be offered to the patient as an effective alternative to radical prostatectomy. It is best suited for patients with stage A, stage B, or small stage C lesions who have negative bone scans. Edema of the penis follows the lymphadenectomy but gradually subsides.