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How did you choose between proton or photon radiation?
Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Oct 14, 2023 | Replies (35)Comment receiving replies
I chose proton beam therapy in 2018. At the time, it was explained to me the difference between photon and proton. At the Mayo in Phoenix, one of the resident PhD physicist explained that the proton system was designed so the radiation energy is released exactly at the prostrate based on the speed of the protons for your individual body dimensions. Your individual dimensions are programmed for each session. This causes less damage to tissue as the beam enters the body. They were also using the proton beam for young children with brain tumors, so it would cause the least amount of long term brain tissue damage.
Photon beams start using more energy as it enters the body and goes through the body causing more tissue damage. My understanding is the newer Photon machines can avoid more sensitive tissue and may be much better, but I would check it out.
As a side, when I had my treatment, the SpaceOar was not available, so they used a rectal balloon that was inserted for each treatment and then removed. It was protecting the rectum. After, I had no physical restrictions. We were allowed normal activity. There's a website called the Brotherhood of the Balloon or BOB. It discusses why some men chose proton therapy.
Replies to "I chose proton beam therapy in 2018. At the time, it was explained to me the..."
waymen, same thing I was told. There is a new photon radiation machine but it still uses photon which passes through body unlike proton. Mayo Jacksonville has this but not proton.
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Thanks Waymen. You were lucky as Mayo is outstanding. However only Phoenix and Rochester offer Proton. Jacksonville is building a proton but not ready for several years.
The books I got from UFPTI are outstanding. Most of the studies on Proton and Photon are 5 year studies as you mentioned. And at that they focus on cure rates which are basically the same for low risk and confined to prostrate.
To me something that does not pass through you is better than going through you. And I know those institutions that don't have proton will refer patients to facilities that due for specific cancers where limiting exposure of radiation to other tissues and organs is critical.
I am in my 3rd week. Started to have a lot of gas and loose stools and notice my energy is lower now in afternoons. Nothing else other than that. Wish mine was over like yours. What was your follow up from Mayo Phoenix after your treatments?
I was doing Sprint Triathlons where you swim, bike, then run prior to diagnosis. I had the Space/Oar and it prevented riding a bike so my training and races were stopped. The Space/Oar can dislodge if ride a bike or run/jog. I have discomfort from mine. I was warned about the feeling but is much more pronounced that I thought. I think the biggest benefit is you don't have to have the extra time to put in balloon as Space/oar is already there. Down side is the uncomfortable feeling and restrictions on activities.
Take care and if you can please let me know what your follow up was after your last radiation treatment.