Transrectal Ultrasound Guided Injection of Gold Seed Fiducial Markers

As preparation for your external beam radiotherapy, it is now recommended that three gold seeds are injected into the prostate to improve the accuracy of delivery of the treatment. The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance. The probe is gently passed into the rectum and the prostate is visualised using the ultrasound. Three gold seeds are then injected into the prostate under ultrasound control. The procedure is performed under intravenous sedation.

You may experience some bleeding from the urethra after the procedure. This can last from 2 days to 2 weeks, but it usually settles within one week. You may also see blood in the semen which may last for several weeks, depending on how often you ejaculate. This is not dangerous. About 25% of men have some discomfort passing their urine afterwards but this usually settles quickly. There is a possibility of perineal or scrotal bruising that will resolve in 10-14 days.

There is a small risk (1%) of developing an infection in the blood stream septicaemia. This can cause you to feel unwell with fevers and chills. If this happens you should contact me immediately and attend the Emergency Department.

You should expect to see some bleeding as mentioned above. If the urine is red then you should drink extra fluid to help keep the urine light in colour. If the bleeding seems excessive, or you are passing clots in the urine, please contact me.

If you have burning when you pass your urine that does not seem to be getting better after 2 days then you could have a urine infection. Please contact my clinic rooms and I will arrange a urine test and assessment.

I suggest you rest quietly for the remainder of the day and avoid any heavy lifting or straining until the blood clears from your urine and bowels.

Legally you should not drive for 24 hours after having sedation/ general anaesthetic.