What's the difference between proton vs traditional radiation?

3 and half years ago when I was looking at treatment options, I compared proton and photon and chose Proton because of the tissue damage issue. Since then there are advances in photon radiation with image guided and volumetric radiation that reduce tissue damage with photons. A friend of mine consulted with my radiation oncologist who did my proton therapy and my doctor recommended to him the advanced form of photon. It may not be so clear cut which is better. As with all medical treatment, get as educated as possible and then discuss options with your doctor. However, I would be sure that you have access to most advanced form of photon therapy.

I thought the photon beam was for smaller, direct application to cancer/tumor. For instance, I had a .2 psa, then several weeks later a .3 psa (Post prostatectomy from 2013) . Did PET scan, but Radiation Oncologist advised there's about a 40% chance he will see it when psa is still .3, thus have to treat larger areas if the goal is curability. That's all I understand... not much.

Thank you all so much. Had this conversation today. There is a plan for 28 treatments but the doctor reassured us that this was as careful as possible treating a fairly large tumor inside of a giant prostrate. I understand it is photon, on their newest machine with a careful plan.

Hi, I had a Robotic Prostatectomy 8 yrs ago wirh slowly rising psa. My psa is now 0.24, the highest it's been. Rad Onc suggested 39 treatments of radiation. What did you finally decide to do? Thanks

I underwent what looks like the same regimen your Rad Onc suggested. Completed about 3 months ago. I also took an ADT, Orgovyx for a 6 month period. I started it right before treatment and continued for 3-4 months afterward. Wish you the best! Treatment was relatively mild from the radiation. Had some mood swings with the hormone therapy, but was told it improved my odds. Best wishes!

Hi again, did you have any permanent bowel or bladder issues? Thx

No, not at all. Although I have to get up occasionally during the night to urinate, but seems to be getting better. I'm used to sleeping through the night.

what is the most advanced form of photon therapy that you're referring to?

One is called Volumetric modulated arc therapy. I believe it has a smaller beam and rotates to miss critical organs. Supposedly takes fewer sessions.

What i had was latest and not readily available everywhere most proton is ct guided. Mine was mri guided it targets just tumor with high dose rads mine was 5 day its only been used for 6 years so clinical results are not available but my dr has seen good results with survival a few years so far
Mine shrunk a bit from my smv vein and now surgeons say they may be able to do surgery. But Im afraid and trying to decide ..