For me the critical factor in deciding between surgery and radiation was the higher incidence of bowel dysfunction following radiation. The rate is fairly low and has decreased as techniques have improved, but it is still significantly higher with radiation than with surgery. Of all of the possible side effects, that was the one that I felt would be most compromising to my life style.

I have been quite fortunate in having had only a minor decrease in sexual function, which has been offset by the use of Cialis, and minimal issues with incontinence (I wear an extra light guard during the day in case of the very occasional dribble, and I need a light/medium pad when go out for a 3-6 mile run).