Chapter 24: Radionuclide therapy
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Complications
Although rare, severe treatment‐related side‐effects cannot be totally excluded.
- There is a small risk of incontinence (less than 2%).
- Erectile dysfunction: occurs in 40–50% of men under the age of 60 and is more common in older men. Its frequency depends on the level of erectile function before treatment. Treatment is available for those men who develop difficulties.
- Reduced volume of ejaculate: the prostate is responsible for semen production and radiation treatments cause the relevant glands in the prostate to stop production.
- Proctitis: persistent inflammation of the rectum leading to increased urge to open bowels and the passing of mucus. This occurs rarely (in less than 1% of patients).
