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Prostatectomy Question? Side effects outweigh benefits?
Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Aug 27, 2023 | Replies (64)Comment receiving replies
Thank you for your in-depth reply Michael, this is what I have been asking my surgeon but he says they don’t radiate after surgery. I just turned 56 by the way, so perhaps I may respond better if everything goes well with surgery but I feel young to have this happen. My feeling was that the treatment should be different based on my rare situation so I will consider my options and get a second opinion.
Wishing you all the best on your next follow up in November! I really appreciate your reply so thank you!
Replies to "Thank you for your in-depth reply Michael, this is what I have been asking my surgeon..."
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"Yes, yes and yes" to a PCa diagnosis being overwhelming and challenging.
Many men, including me, have benefited from Patrick Walsh, Md's excellent book "Surviving Prostate Cancer" (Note: 2018 4th edition and some treatment protocols have evolved).
Also the Prostate Cancer Foundation (pcf.org) has a Patient Guide that is free as either a download or in hard copy.
I felt that surgery gave me the best chance for the best cure.
In general, if radiation is your primary therapy, then surgery thereafter is more challenging due to the effects of radiation upon the prostate and surrounding tissue, with greater risk of adverse continence and erectlie function consequences.
Sounds as if the clinical trial would add one or more ADT (androgen deprivation therapy) agents depending upon your specific condition.
I am not able to comment regarding your "rare situation". Perhaps a 2d opinion from Johns Hopkins or Mayo might be instructive?
Best wishes in making your choice and for a successful treatment.
Best, Michael