Finished 28 Proton Therapies

thanks, desertfalcon. It's a long way to go, but they are even conducting a clinical trial.

Do you know the radiation oncologist at New York Proton Center?

@desertfalcon1954
I had my proton radiation treatments at University of Florida Hospital Proton Therapy Institute. They have been doing treatmens since 2006. They updated all their gantries and can provide either type of proton radiation.

I got the pencil beam and 30 rounds. I got pencil beam as I have a ICD/Pacemaker and their physics department wanted to stay away from the device as much as possible.

Mayo Jacksonville where I go for all other medical did not have or could offer Proton radiation just photon. I decided to do what could be the least damage to other tissues and organs as proton radiation is promoted as doing. So I chose that as the reserach I did confirm what I was reading. The cure rate of the proton versus photon is same just a chance to reduce the damage in/and out the areas of the prostrate. The biggest difference being the proton radiation does NOT proceed past the prostrate and out body like photon does.

I am happy with UFHPTI and would recommend it to anyone. Having said that if Mayo Jacksonville had had proton I would have had it done there only because all my other medical is done there as well as being closer.

Does anybody know of research on the side effects of proton therapy over time... say 10 years (he said very optimistically!)

The after effects after 10 years can vary throughout many patients so nothing is set in stone.

@joecontheroad

Most of the research I read and my oncologist/radiologist, urologist says that most side effects are usually over in 2-3 years. Some of the most prominent ones is the rectal bleeding. It is usually not major but minor. It is caused by the radiation damage to rectum during treatments even though Space/Oar and proton radiation.

What I am told is the radiation damages the blood vessels in rectum and new ones grow. The new ones are very fragile so bowel movements and constipation can cause them to bleed. I am told this is temporary as the blood vessels will grow stronger and this will stop.

I am 6 months from my last treatment. I really have had only one small bleed and some urination slow that has rectified itself. The only on going issue is drippling after urination. Seems I just can't get all out. My radiologist/oncologist said this is and can be just old age where muscles are just not that strong anymore. So have been doing kegel exercises which has really helped with urine retention but not after urination drippling.

Hi. Thanks for your concern.

I am very early in the triage process, with elevated total PSA of 5.7, free PSA 8%, negative DRE, and an MRI scan scheduled in early Feb.

My interest in proton beam therapy at this stage is building background on modern treatment modalities, side effects, and best in class treatment locations.

if you decide on the proton beam therapy make sure that your initial technician has loads of experience with the procedure when it comes to the Hydro Gel Space Oar. it truly makes a difference after completing the treatments and monitoring the after effects for the next two three three years. you must diligently prep yourself before each treatment to maximize the protection and always find your sweet spot for hydration.

Thanks, jc76.

jc76, did you experience radiation burns to the skin during treatement? Likely the least of the problems because no one mentions it.
Thanks