Well folks, 23 April was my big day for the TULSA PRO surgery. I had a full gland ablation. I decided to use the St. Louis University Care group which is partnered with the Sisters of St. Mary (SSM) Health hospital group. Dr. Sameer Siddiqui who is the Chair of Surgery, Chief of Urology and an Associate Professor was my surgeon. We were told that everything went well. All of the doctors, nurses and staff members were professional, competent and cordial.

We arrived at 5:30 AM and departed around 12:30PM. I think the pre/post activity, as well as the recovery, took more time than the actual procedure. As the surgery requires sedation the only pain encountered was the installation of the IV in my arm.

The only issue I have post surgery is the predicted soreness of my penis tip where the catheter enters. It’s not too bad and seems to dissipate with over the counter pain meds. They gave me a prescription for some heavy duty pain meds, but at this point I have no plans to use them.

I am overjoyed with the outcome. However, the real results won’t be known for three months when the PSA numbers start to show up. I am also blessed TULSA PRO is now an insurance covered procedure. For all the bad press United Healthcare has received they came through for my procedure. My total out of pocket cost was around $335.00. I’m 69 so Medicare is in the mix as well.

I am telling everyone I know that TULSA PRO should be on their radar when considering prostate cancer treatments. I was within three weeks of starting radiation treatments with a different urologist and something told me to research alternatives. All I can say is that some prayers do get answered.