A Case of Rectourethral Fistula; Patient Outcomes with Brachytherapy Vs Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy

Prostate cancer is the second commonest malignancy in men worldwide and disease incidence increases with increasing age. Prognosis is affected by different variables but it is well established that Prostate cancer is a slow growing/spreading malignancy and thus resulting in a high prevalence. Brachytherapy, permanent radioactive seed implantation, remains an invaluable therapy for organ confined disease with high disease free survival (66-79%). When compared with radical prostatectomy, brachytherapy is perceived as a safer option for co-morbid patients, that have a higher anaesthetic risk. Having said that, rectourethral fistula as a complication of radiation proctitis is a well established risk that can result in significant morbidity and negatively impact in patients quality of life.