The specific objective of this study is to compare the relative efficacy of the combination of a temporary iridium implant plus external beam irradiation versus standard external beam irradiation alone in patients with Stage B2 and C prostatic carcinoma. Benefit will be assessed in terms of local recurrence, survival, and toxicity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients must have histologically proven adenocarcinoma of the prostate
• The primary tumour should be staged clinically B2 or C as classified by A.J.C. Staging System

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients requiring transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) prior to diagnosis
• Presence of metastases identified by bone scan, chest x-ray or CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis, or staging lymphadenectomy
• Karnofsky performance status less than 80
• Inadequate laboratory results: i.e. Hb < 12 gm/litre, WBC < 3.5 x 10 per litre, platelets < 100 x 10/litre, urea > 13 mmol/litre, creatinine > 220 mmol/litre
• Unfit for surgery for other medical reasons
• Age above 75 years
• Failure to provide written informed consent