Prostate Cancer Treatment Results in Permanent Injury

Case Overview

This case involves a 70-year-old male patient who on underwent a prostate seed brachytherapy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. The treating physician advised that he would insert 40 to 60 radioactive seeds. At the time of the procedure, the physician actually inserted 90 seeds. The seeds were apparently a new, stronger type. During a follow up visit, the patient claimed that he passed 4 seeds. In a follow up visit months later, the patient claimed to have passed 10 radioactive seeds. During the last visit months later, the plaintiff still complained of intermittent severe pelvic / penile pain, difficulty sitting and lifting objects without pain. Plaintiff claims that as a result of the procedure, he has suffered internal burns and nerve damage. The seeds either migrated, spilled out, were not inserted properly, or too many were inserted. Plaintiff continues to suffer pain from the prostate to the penis. He cannot have the prostate removed with the seeds still in place. The pain and injury are believed to be permanent.

Questions to the Radiation Oncology expert and their responses

How often do you perform this procedure?

I perform 20-25 brachytherapy per year.

Could you review the records and opine on your findings?

I have reviewed many cases of prostate brachytherapy and most have rare, severe effects like fistula, nothing exactly like this. The crucial determination is whether the total activity implanted was appropriate and whether the sources were placed correctly. These questions can only be answered with a thorough review of all of the records including post implant CT scans and dosimetry.

About the expert

This highly qualified, board certified Professor of Radiation Oncology received his medical degree from the University of Virginia. He subsequently completed a Residency in Radiation Oncology and Fellowship training in Clinical Oncology. He is a member of numerous professional societies including the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. This expert has recieved many awards throughout his career including the Ulrich Henschke Award. This expert has published 139 peer-reviewed journal articles and authored 12 book chapters. He is frequently invited to to lecture as a guest speaker both nationally and internationally. He is a former Professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

E-008870

Specialties:

Radiation Oncology