I’m 70, PCa diagnosis this past August, Gleason 4+3. MRI with contrast showed cancer contained in the prostate. After consultations with surgeons and a radiation oncologist, I opted for RALP.

Two factors influenced my decision: radiation treatment post-surgery was an option if I needed it (the reverse order isn’t always possible), a skilled surgeon could remove all the cancer and preserve nerve bundles…minimal incontinence and ED issues.

Surgery was 19 days ago, and I’m recovering very well. 95% or better continence and jury is still out on ED - which was a pre-existing condition anyway.

I’ve been active with walking and bicycling with a group, and have been religious with Kegel exercises and yoga, and believe this has helped a lot with quickly regaining continence. I’m wearing a pad, but it will last for 12 hours unless I drink a lot of fluid. It’s more of a nuisance and I can live with it. I expect to gain 100% continence in a few more weeks.

I will have a followup appointment with my urologist, as well as another PSA test - we’ll see what the results are. One step at a time…..

In hindsight, I’m happy with the decision my wife and I made. My surgeon is an active researcher and skilled with the DaVinci robotic researcher. My understanding from all I have read and been told is that the skill of the surgeon is probably the single most important factor in the success of RALP.

Right now, life is good. I feel good and have additional treatment options if I need them in the future.

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