Seed implants

NJMOM
NJMOM Member Posts: 64
in Head and Neck Cancer #1

When my husband got diagnosed they mentioned seed implants after the treatments are over. Have any of you had the experience of having the seed implants or know of someone who has? Is there a time period that they're active? Any personal experience good or bad would be greatly appreciated.

Comments

  • ratface
    ratface Member Posts: 1,337 Member
    #2
    I have a friend who had them

    yes I have some secondhand experience. Friend of mine had them inplanted in his tonsils somewhere. Far as I know they remain radioactive for a period of days???? You probably need to stay away???? I'm sure it will all be explained. They were effective in his case and cured his cancer. I think they use them in prostrate cancer also implanting them in the testicles??? Sorry but it's only secondhand information, it's a valid treatment and it works. You will have some guidelines to follow.

  • CivilMatt
    CivilMatt Member Posts: 4,722 Member
    #3
    good seed

    NJMOM,

    I agree with rat face, it is a radioactive particle they put next to the cancer. I belive'that there are all kinds of restrictions on anybody that comes in contact with the patient including doctors, nurses and family.

    I imagine if the cancer is contained in one location the use of seed technology is doable.

    Good luck,

    Matt

  • NJMOM
    NJMOM Member Posts: 64
    #4
    Thanks guys

    When we met with the doctor who might be doing the seed implants, it was discussed as an option if the chemo and radiation didn't do the trick but that doctor seemed to think that we would have success with my husband's proposed plan of treatment. I have since discovered my grandfather had them for prostate cancer but have not heard of anyone having them for tongue cancer and was just curious why it was suggested to us.

  • littlemisskitty
    littlemisskitty Member Posts: 35
    #5
    Seed implants

    I have never heard of it in head and neck cancer but I have heard success stories with other parts. It's called brachytherapy if I'm not mistaken. I had a friend whose father had it implanted in his prostate. I honestly don't remember him having to take any precautions. They had a young child in the house with them and the child was able to still give hugs almost right away when he came home from the hospital so I'm not sure there are anything extra to do afterwards. I was watching the child so the son could be with the father and like I said I'm pretty sure the child went right up and gave the grandpa a hug so I don't think there are any extra precautions either that or they didn't tell him? I'm sure the doctor will tell you anything you need to know. It was successful and he's healthy today which is a good thing! I'm sure it works the same way in the neck as it did with him.

  • debbiejeanne
    debbiejeanne Member Posts: 3,102 Member
    #6
    NJMOM said:

    Thanks guys

    When we met with the doctor who might be doing the seed implants, it was discussed as an option if the chemo and radiation didn't do the trick but that doctor seemed to think that we would have success with my husband's proposed plan of treatment. I have since discovered my grandfather had them for prostate cancer but have not heard of anyone having them for tongue cancer and was just curious why it was suggested to us.

    this is the first time i've

    this is the first time i've ever heard of this.  its actually pretty cool.  i just want to say i pray the rad and chemo work for your hubby but glad there is a plan b if not.

    God bless you,

    dj

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