Effect of constipation on dosimetry after permanent seed brachytherapy for prostate cancer.

Purpose: A major concern in prostate brachytherapy is rectal toxicity, which mainly depends on the dose and volume of rectum involved by radiation. We hypothesize that the rectal distension, as produced by constipation, influences the dosimetric parameters of the rectum and other pelvic organs.

Material And Methods: An open, controlled, prospective, paired trial (pre-post test) was designed and conducted.