Prostate cancer

Was diagnosed with cancer 15 years ago had radio therapy psa on last test  was 2.2 so been told now the cancer has come back it hasn’t spread luckily so I have to choose between salvage surgery and brachytherapy not sure what course to take any advice would be helpful I am 66 years old

  • Hi Touchdown and welcome, sorry to hear cancer has returned, though thankfully it has been caught early. I have no personal experience of either but have many friends who have, The main problem with a salvage prostatectomy, because you have had radiotherapy in the past side effects are more likely, especially erectile dysfunction and incontinence. Brachytherapy, whether HDR of LDR one week implant or permanent seed implant the risk of these side effects are reduced. take care,

    Eddie

  • Hello touchdown, I was 66 when I had brachytherapy. The op was painless and quick. I was in hospital for about 5 hrs or until I could pee twice without problems. 

    All was ok for a month and then my bladder started playing up. I slept upright in a chair for two months as I needed to pee every hour layed down. This was manageable but then I found it very difficult to pee. After a few weeks I went to UTC on the advise from the oncology nurse. They fitted a catheter which was like heaven after the weeks of sleepless nights. Some people get on ok with them but I constantly got infections which causes more problems. Anyway after 5 months I had it removed, wonderful. I was free to wear shorts, walk without irritation and ride my bike.

    I still have the urge to pee every hour or two but I can hold it now. It's been 21 months since my op and life is returning to normal although I still tire very quickly.

    Sorry if this worries you but it takes time, and now it only seems like a bad dream. 

    Everyone is different. You might not have any problems, a lot of people don't. Be positive. It's your decision and your life, so whatever you choose follow the advice given by the nurses assigned to you, they are great.

    Cpr