Combined permanent implant and external-beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer

A number of series have been published examining the utility of combining low-dose rate permanent interstitial implants with external-beam radiation (CMT). However, the data show conflicting results. Comparisons of these studies are confounded by the lack of similar biochemical failure definitions, inequities in risk groups between compared arms, variable implant quality, and differences in implant margins and techniques. Despite these limitations, the literature does suggest that CMT may help spare patients the need for androgen deprivation, overcome adverse pathologic factors, and correct for poor implant quality. We present the recent innovation and potential benefits of using implant dose-adjusted intensity-modulated radiation therapy. © 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.