Computed tomography is an effective noninvasive method for locating the prostatic apex for radiation therapy for prostate cancer, U.S. researchers say.

Dr. Gregory Swanson of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio said retrograde urethrography, which involves inserting a catheter into the male urethra to inject contrast, is the standard method used to identify the area of the prostate to be treated with radiation.

However, this method is invasive and uncomfortable for patients and comes with risks of side effects, such as urethral injury and infection, as well as additional costs, Swanson said.

Fifteen patients underwent a CT simulation both with and without bladder, urethral and rectal contrast. The prostatic base and apex were identified easily and consistently on both scans by taking a side view of the patient and drawing a line from the pubic bone straight down to the floor of the pelvis.

The study, published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, said the process was repeated and confirmed in another 57 patients, leading researchers to determine that it is not necessary to subject a patient to a urinary catheter for contrast delivery.

SAN ANTONIO, May 22 (UPI)
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