Objective: To study the role of (125)I seed implantation in the treatment of unresectable pancreatic cancer.
Methods: From April 2004 to march 2006, 66 untreated patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) were randomized into two groups: Group A: (125)I seeds implantation (n = 31) and Group B: control (n = 34). The objective tumor response, clinical benefit response, toxicity, complications and survival of two groups were observed.
Results: In Group A, the overall response rate (PR + NC) was 80.6%. Clinical benefit response rate was 54.8%. No toxicity was observed. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage and pancreatic fistula occurred in 1 patient respectively in Group A. The survival rates of 6 and 12 months were 56.0% vs 31.4% and 16.8% vs 2.9% respectively in two groups (P < 0.05). The median survival time of two groups was 8.0 months vs 4.0 months (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: (125)I seed implantation is a simple, safe and effective method in the treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer.