Background: Brachytherapy is a well-established and effective primary treatment modality for low- and favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancers. Although the benefits of brachytherapy in unfavorable intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancers have not been as clear, research suggests that brachytherapy boost may improve biochemical progression-free survival in these patients.
Objectives: This article aims to discuss evidence for the revival of brachytherapy use in unfavorable intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancers and specific nursing implications in the management of these patients.
Methods: The literature on brachytherapy and its use to treat localized prostate cancers was reviewed.
Findings: Nurses should be knowledgeable about the indications for brachytherapy, patient eligibility, anticipated side effects, and symptom management.
Keywords: brachytherapy; cancer risk; localized prostate cancer; prostate cancer; radiation therapy.