A few other things I wanted to mention. Along with Gleason score and stage level, other important factors are your age, health condition, whether you presently have had urinary problems, and what is important to you for erectile function.

I’ll also mention that many will tell you it’s important to get second opinion on biopsy and to interview more than one physician. We got a second opinion from Johns Hopkins on the Mayo biopsy pathology report. We are glad we did, as it came up with a few things that were not on the Mayo report.

After speaking with a urology oncologist, and with 2 radiation oncologists at Rochester MN Mayo Clinic, we decided to go with the second radiation oncologist because he is well experienced in brachytherapy, is known to be very picky and careful about his procedures, and we felt at ease and comfortable with him.

Also, very important that you find a physician who has done lots and lots of the type of therapy you are seeking, and has a track record of good results. This is especially important with brachytherapy, as it is a treatment that is declining in use in the USA (but increasing in use in Canada, Europe and other countries around the world).

Blessings to you on your journey. Happy Holidays!

Jim