Prostatectomy after Proton Beam Therapy

[jokirk6]

Can prostatectomy be done as a salvage operation after Proton Beam Therapy?  I know it is not a viable option after seeds or EBRT, but the Oncologists at a PBT facility are saying it is an option after PBT because there is no scarring outside the prostate.  Also related, can a biopsy be done after Proton Beam Therapy?  I am considering doing the PBT and then having a biopsy a year later to see if the cancer is gone.  This would be necessary in my case because PSA does not seem to be a reliable indicator in my case.  I have a 9mm tumor, Gleason score of 6 and 0.9 PSA.

[claytex]

I think your sure doing things right... I checked out all of the options like you did... You cant just take the doctors word.  They all want to treat you how ever they are trained and that is understandable... I checked a proton website and it said some doctors who were specialist could perform a prostatectomy on fromer proton and other radiation patients. I am sure pleased with my proton treatments... the great thing is that I dont have side effects like some of the other treatments cause... and it seems that I am fine.. my numbers are sure good and I feel great.... however I do agree with what you are doing as far as considering all options... I think being convinced that you have made the right choice is a big plus when you start the treatments... I will add that if you take proton, I think that one of the keys to its sucess is plenty of exercise during treatments and drinking lots of water both help lots...good luck Claytex

[jokirk6]

I am considering Proton Therapy.  One deciding factor is if prostatectomy is possible afterwards.  A 10% chance of a re-occurance means that you still have to consider salvage options.  I have had surgerys with a 10% risk that came true.  I would not consider either cryrotherapy or Lupron.  Cryotherapy runs a 60% chance of impotence.  Luporon is only effective at slowing down the cancer spread.  In latest study of hormone treatments, 50% of the participants died within 5 years.  If the cancer re-occurred, I would want the prostate surgically removed.  If a re-occurance after PBT means that it is unlikely to be confined to the prostate, then I would not consider PBT.

[claytex]

Didnt I didnt read your read your post very good.. you are considering Proton??? or have you had it.. My thoughts about Proton is that you probably wont need any follow up.. I am very very pleased with my results... where are you considering having it done at.. I was sure pleased with Loma Linda.. they started it in this country about 20 years ago.. and they are so dedicated to patient care... claytex

[claytex]

I had prostate cancer in 2005 and had Proton Radiation treatments at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda California.  It has a 90% cure rate and little to no side effects.  My psa is now .05 and I have no side effects from the cancer or the Proton Radiation.. Its like I was never sick and am well.  Im not sure about your question, they told they could freeze it after radiation... or take lupron.. I do remember that dunno bout the other... If I understand your post, you have not had the cancer treated yet... Man... Im tellin ya Id have Proton Radiation.  Personally Id not consider any of the other treatment options after experiencing Proton/// If you want more info in it let me know... good luck Claytex