Localised Prostate Cancer
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Surgery or Radiation?
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Report postSurgery or Radiation?
Have Gleason 7 with PSA 8.8, had Biopsy and was offered the Robotic Prostatectomy some 6 months ago. Lots of Pros and Cons but thought would investigate and trial a few natural health and immune system treatments. Over the 6 months, PSA went down to 7.2 and back up to 9.2. Waiting latest PSA result next week. I know everyone is different with treatment options, but has anyone been in a similar situation wondering if to have the Robotic or go the Radiation way??? At the crossroads here next couple of months as do another PSA October and then MRI due November, then if have to make an executive decision, I would appreciate some heads up as the Urologist is knife happy in my opinion!
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After PSA 10 (Mar 2023 – age 71) consulted urologist who suggested MRI which indicated presence of prostate cancer-PCa. Suggested biopsy. Confirmed Gleason 7 in 3 locations. Indicated treatment rather than monitoring necessary. Suggested 2nd opinion from radiation oncologist who reviewed scans who also confirmed treatment was necessary and outlined radiation treatment. Had PSMA scan which confirmed location of PC in the prostate.
Through this I reviewed as much internet medical information as possible.
In Aug 2023 decided to under RALP…main reasons:
_ My research suggested that the urologist was following accepted best practice for prostate cancer treatment…PSA, MRI, biopsy, 2nd opinion, PSMA, surgery or radiation.
_ RALP was likely to give the best physical outcome.
_ I had to have treatment – could have radiation after surgery, if necessary, but not surgery after radiation. Also, radiation treatment required some surgical preparation.
_ Urologist clearly outlined the procedure and post-surgery potential complications…I trusted my urologist.
_ I just wanted the “b” thing out!
Main drawback was the total cost – surgeon, assistant, anaesthetist, hospital – ~$10,*** after fund refund.
Sep 2023 – first consultation with specialist prostate physiotherapist.
Oct 2023 – RALP – histopathology report showed PCa was more extensive than scans showed – ISUP Grade Group 3, Composite Gleason Score 4+3 = 7. Grade pT3b due to bliateral seminal vesicle involvement but prostate margins appeared clear.
Negligible PSA post surgery and 3 month visits Mar and Jun 2024. After similar PSA score in Jan 2025 normal 6 month consultation extended to Oct this year.
I had typical incontinence post-surgery which became easily manageable within 6 months. Essentially continent after 12 months when I stopped using pads. My physio was a significant help and support in this…I strictly followed his recovery plan.
Unfortunately, due to nerves needing to be removed I am impotent, but was aware of this pre surgery.
I am totally satisfied with my decision and its outcome.
After a diagnosis of Gleason 6 prostate cancer five years ago, my husband was on active surveillance. During that time, he had regular PSA tests, MRIs, biopsies, and PSMA scans. His PSA level, which was around 4 at the time of his initial diagnosis, has since risen to 11 as of this January, and the cancer’s grade has changed to Gleason 7.
Given his family history—his father also passed away from the disease—my husband has decided to move forward with a robotic prostatectomy to remove the cancer. The surgery is scheduled for this October. I hope this helps to shape your thoughts. Good luck for us🤞🙏 Suzy
Hi Landy 1930,
Thank you for posting your message on the Online Community.
You might find it useful to start with the links below for further information.
https://www.prostate.org.au/treatments-side-effects/
If you need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse Telephone service.
We can help provide more information making a decision about your treatment options of radiation therapy or surgery.
You can reach us on 1800 22 00 99 (ask to speak to a nurse), or follow the link to request a call back https://www.prostate.org.au/nursing-support/ and we’ll get back to you. We’re here to help.
Kind regards,
PCFA’s Telenursing Team
Phone: 1800 22 00 99
e: t*******e@p*******.au
prostate.org.au