IMMEDIATE POSTOPERATIVE SIDE EFFECTS:

1. Slight bleeding beneath the scrotum

2. Blood in the urine

3. Bruising and tenderness between the legs

These side effects are caused by the needles used to place the seeds. Usually twenty to twenty-five needles are used. The seeds themselves, and the catheter and other instruments used during the procedure, also can contribute to these side effects. If you should experience severe pain or severe bleeding, you should call your urologist.

A catheter is placed into the bladder during surgery and is removed several hours later. In some instances, it is left in overnight. It is normal to have some blood in the urine which will drain from the catheter. This bleeding may continue for several days, so do not be alarmed. If it becomes severe and/or is associated with large blood clots, call your urologist. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent blood clots and flushes the bladder.

After the catheter is removed it is normal to experience some burning with urination. If you cannot pass your urine within six hours after removal of the catheter, you need to contact your urologist or go to the Emergency Room for care. This is particularly true if you have a feeling of bladder fullness or bladder discomfort.

LATER SIDE EFFECTS:

1. Frequent urination

2. Burning with urination

3. Sense of urgency

4. Weaker urinary stream

These later side effects are due to the irritative effects of the radiation seed implants into the prostate and can last for several weeks to months. The radiation causes swelling and irritation of the prostate which causes the above symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding caffeine-containing beverages may help to relieve these symptoms. If they are bothersome, medication from your radiation oncologist or urologist may be helpful.