Satyendra Persaud MBBS DM(Urol) FCCS Registrar, Department of Urology San Fernando General Hospital, Trinidad and Tobago
Last time we discussed situations where it would be appropriate to observe low risk prostate cancer – this is called active surveillance. This week I wanted to briefly discuss another option for managing prostate cancer which hasn’t spread outside the prostate – radical prostatectomy. I should remind you that in order to determine whether the cancer hasn’t spread, the urologist may request an MRI scan and a special scan of the bones. Not everyone is suitable for surgery and if your cancer is too large, you may be better suited for radiation therapy. Also, if you have other medical issues which may put you at risk during surgery, the urologist may opt for another form of therapy.
What is a radical prostatectomy and how is this done?
This is an operation to remove the prostate.