What are the risks of prostate removal if cancer returns after radiation?
Community Member
5 days agoI had prostate cancer in 2023, completed 45 sessions of radiation concurrent with 6 months of ADT. 2 years of PSA test results are below .07, but have increased a little bit periodically. My concern is that if the cancer does return what are the negatives for removing the prostate? I tolerated the radiation okay, but the ADT wiped me out and it took a long time to work through the fatigue and other side effects, which still linger. I’m 79 and active and don’t want to return to days of fatigue, absence of testosterone, etc.
Community Member
5 days agoSalvage prostatectomy after radiation does carry additional risks compared to initial surgery, including higher chances of complications like incontinence and erectile dysfunction due to scar tissue formation. The procedure is also technically more challenging, which can affect recovery time and outcomes. Given the energy concerns mentioned and the fact that PSA levels remain very low, this would definitely be a detailed discussion to have with an oncologist who can weigh the specific benefits and risks based on individual health factors and cancer characteristics.
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