Prostate Cancer
A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
ℹ️ What Is the Prostate?
The prostate is a gland of the male reproductive system, located just below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra and produces fluid that enhances the transport and protection of sperm. During adulthood, the prostate may undergo various changes:
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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Although it is not directly linked to cancer, BPH can cause symptoms such as frequent urination and a weak urine stream.
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Prostatitis: An inflammation often associated with infection, which can appear in men of any age.
However, prostate cancer occurs when malignant cells develop within the gland. These cells can grow either slowly or at a more aggressive rate, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and check-ups.
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In Greece, several thousand new cases are recorded annually, placing prostate cancer among the top five most prevalent cancers in men.
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About 60–65% of diagnoses involve men over the age of 65, as the risk rises with advancing age.
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Hereditary factors, racial differences, and an unhealthy lifestyle (high-fat diet, obesity, and lack of exercise) are associated with a higher likelihood of both developing the disease and experiencing a more aggressive form.
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International statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 7 men will develop prostate cancer at some point in their lives. Early detection through regular PSA tests, combined with modern medical technology, leads to high survival rates—even in advanced stages.
📊 Why Is Prostate Cancer So Common?
In its early stages, prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, some men may experience:
✔ Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow
✔ Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
✔ A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
✔ Weak or interrupted urine stream
✔ Blood in urine (hematuria) or semen (hemospermia) – rare in early stages
✔ Bone pain (lower back, hips, or other skeletal areas) in cases of metastatic disease, as prostate cancer commonly spreads to the bones
📊 Why Early Detection Matters
Studies show that up to 40% of men are diagnosed in the early stages without noticeable symptoms. This makes preventive screenings (PSA test, clinical examination, and potentially multiparametric MRI - mpMRI) crucial for early detection.
✅ Early diagnosis allows for highly effective treatment before cancer spreads to the bones or causes severe complications. Don’t wait for symptoms—screening can save lives.
🔎 Prostate Cancer Symptoms
🩺 Early Diagnosis & Prostate Cancer Screening
Early detection significantly improves treatment success rates. At RhodosUrology.gr, under the expertise of Urologist Dr. Marinos Vasilas, we utilize the latest diagnostic methods for accurate and timely prostate cancer detection:
🔬 PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
A fundamental blood test that measures PSA levels to detect potential abnormalities.
✔ An elevated PSA does not always indicate cancer, as benign conditions can also cause an increase. However, regular monitoring helps identify suspicious trends early.
✋ Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A physical exam that allows the doctor to assess the prostate for hard or irregular areas.
✔ Often combined with the PSA test for improved diagnostic accuracy.
An advanced imaging technique that combines multiple sequences (T2, DWI, DCE) to provide detailed prostate visualization.
✔ Improves the detection of suspicious lesions and, when paired with MRI Fusion Biopsy, increases diagnostic precision.
The only definitive test for confirming prostate cancer.
✔ Using the Fusion Biopsy technique, suspicious areas identified in the mpMRI are merged with ultrasound images, guiding biopsy tools with pinpoint accuracy.
📢 Early detection saves lives—schedule your screening today!
🗂️ Prostate Cancer Staging & Gleason Score
🔍 Why is Staging Important?
Accurate prostate cancer staging helps doctors determine:
✔ How advanced the cancer is
✔ The best treatment strategy (e.g., surgery, radiation, hormone therapy)
✔ The prognosis and potential disease progression
1️⃣ TNM Staging System
The internationally recognized TNM system classifies cancer based on:
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T (Tumor): Size and extent of the tumor
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T1: Not palpable or visible on imaging (often found incidentally during surgery for benign conditions or biopsy)
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T2: Confined within the prostate (affects one or both lobes)
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T3: Extends beyond the prostate capsule or invades the seminal vesicles
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T4: Invades nearby organs/tissues (e.g., rectum, pelvic wall)
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N (Nodes): Lymph node involvement
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N0: No lymph node metastasis
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N1: Metastasis in one or more pelvic lymph nodes
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M (Metastasis): Distant cancer spread
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M0: No distant metastases
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M1: Cancer has spread to distant organs or bones (e.g., spine, femur)
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2️⃣ Prostate Cancer Stages (I–IV)
🔹 Stage I:
✔ Small, localized tumor (T1 or T2a)
✔ Low Gleason Score (≤6, ISUP Grade Group 1)
✔ Low PSA (<10 ng/mL)
✔ Usually asymptomatic, often discovered incidentally
🔹 Stage II (Localized but more extensive or aggressive):
✔ Tumor remains within the prostate (T2b/T2c)
✔ Moderate Gleason Score (3+4=7) or PSA (10–20 ng/mL)
✔ No lymph node or distant metastasis
🔹 Stage III (Locally Advanced Cancer):
✔ Tumor extends beyond the prostate capsule (T3) or into seminal vesicles
✔ Higher Gleason Score (>7) or PSA >20 ng/mL
✔ May involve local lymph nodes (N0 or N1) but no distant metastases
🔹 Stage IV (Advanced/Metastatic Cancer):
✔ Tumor invades nearby structures (T4)
✔ Lymph node involvement (N1) and/or distant metastases (M1)
✔ Most commonly spreads to bones (M1b) or organs (M1c)
✔ Requires multimodal treatment (hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, etc.)
3️⃣ Gleason Score & ISUP Grade Group
The Gleason Score is a key histological grading system that indicates how aggressive the cancer is. It is calculated by summing the two most predominant cell patterns in the biopsy:
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Gleason 6 (ISUP Grade Group 1): Low aggressiveness
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Gleason 7 (ISUP Grade Group 2–3): Intermediate aggressiveness (3+4=7 is less aggressive than 4+3=7)
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Gleason 8 (ISUP Grade Group 4): High aggressiveness
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Gleason 9–10 (ISUP Grade Group 5): Very high aggressiveness
ISUP Grade Group simplifies Gleason scoring into five risk groups (1–5), improving clarity for treatment decisions.
4️⃣ Risk Stratification
In addition to TNM staging and Gleason Score, a risk classification system categorizes patients into:
✔ Low-risk: T1-T2a, Gleason ≤6, PSA <10
✔ Intermediate-risk: Gleason 7, PSA 10-20, T2b/2c
✔ High-risk: Gleason ≥8, PSA >20, T3
✔ Very high-risk: T3b/T4 or Gleason 9–10
This risk assessment guides treatment choices, from active surveillance (low-risk) to radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, or combination treatments (high-risk).
5️⃣ What This Means for Patients
✅ Low Gleason Score (6) & Low PSA: Favorable prognosis, often managed with active surveillance.
⚠ High Gleason Score (9–10) or Stage IV: Requires multifaceted treatment (hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, etc.).
⚡ Early detection allows for curative treatment even in locally advanced cases (Stage III), but delayed diagnosis can lead to metastatic disease requiring long-term management.
🔎 Understanding your cancer stage, Gleason Score, and risk level allows for a personalized approach—helping you and your doctor choose the best treatment strategy.
⚕️ Prostate Cancer Treatment Options
The choice of the most suitable prostate cancer treatment depends on multiple factors, including:
✔ The stage of the disease (localized, locally advanced, or metastatic)
✔ The aggressiveness of cancer cells (Gleason Score / ISUP Grade Group)
✔ PSA levels
✔ The patient’s age and overall health
✔ Personal preferences
At RhodosUrology.gr, under the expertise of Urologist Dr. Marinos Vasilas, we adopt a holistic and personalized approach to treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
📝 Active Surveillance
Best for:
✔ Low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancer (Gleason 6, low PSA, T1 or T2a)
Includes:
✔ Regular PSA tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), and periodic biopsies or multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)
Advantages:
✔ Avoids side effects from invasive treatments
Disadvantages:
⚠ In some cases, cancer may progress faster than expected
✂️ Surgical Treatment
🔬 3D Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy
Description:
✔ Minimally invasive procedure using a 3D camera and laparoscopic instruments for prostate removal
Advantages:
✔ Smaller incisions and less post-operative pain
✔ Faster recovery
✔ Improved preservation of erectile function (nerve-sparing techniques)
Best for:
✔ Localized or locally confined prostate cancer (Stage I–II, sometimes T3)
🤖 Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy
Description:
✔ A minimally invasive surgery using advanced robotic systems (e.g., Da Vinci Robot), controlled by the surgeon through a high-definition 3D console
Advantages:
✔ Greater precision in surgical movements
✔ Minimized damage to nerves responsible for urinary continence and erectile function
✔ Faster recovery compared to traditional surgery
Best for:
✔ Localized or locally confined prostate cancer (Stages I–II)
💡 Choosing between 3D laparoscopic and robotic surgery depends on equipment availability, surgical expertise, and patient preference.
🔆 Radiation Therapy
Description:
✔ High-energy radiation to destroy or shrink cancer cells
Types:
✅ External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) – Standard treatment with daily sessions over several weeks
✅ Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation) – Radioactive seeds implanted inside the prostate for targeted therapy
Best for:
✔ Alternative to surgery for localized prostate cancer (Stages I–II)
✔ Post-surgical (salvage) treatment if cancer recurs after prostatectomy
Advantages:
✔ Non-surgical approach with high success rates in early stages
Disadvantages:
⚠ Possible side effects (fatigue, bowel/bladder irritation)
⚠ Some long-term effects (radiation prostatitis)
💉 Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy - ADT)
Description:
✔ Lowers or blocks testosterone, slowing cancer growth
Best for:
✔ Locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer
✔ Combined with radiation therapy for aggressive tumors
Advantages:
✔ Slows cancer progression
✔ Effective in combination with other treatments
Disadvantages:
⚠ Reduced libido, hot flashes, osteoporosis, and fatigue
💊 Chemotherapy
Description:
✔ Cytotoxic drugs that kill rapidly growing cancer cells (intravenous or oral treatment)
Best for:
✔ Advanced or metastatic prostate cancer
✔ Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) (cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy)
Advantages:
✔ Extends survival and relieves symptoms
Disadvantages:
⚠ Side effects (hair loss, nausea, fatigue, bone marrow suppression)
🛡️ Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy
Description:
✔ Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to fight prostate cancer
✔ Targeted therapy (e.g., PARP inhibitors) – Focuses on specific genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2)
Best for:
✔ Advanced or castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)
✔ Patients with specific genetic markers
Advantages:
✔ Improves survival rates
✔ Fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy
Disadvantages:
⚠ Not suitable for all patients
⚠ Requires specialized genetic testing
🔎 Innovative Treatments (e.g., HIFU)
Description:
✔ High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) – Uses heat from ultrasound waves to destroy cancer cells
Best for:
✔ Localized prostate cancer (in selected cases)
✔ Recurrent prostate cancer after radiation (Salvage HIFU)
Advantages:
✔ Minimally invasive
✔ Lower side effects than radical treatments
Disadvantages:
⚠ Not effective for aggressive or extensive tumors
⚠ Requires specialized equipment and expertise
Comprehensive Treatment Approach & Practical Advice
🔹 Personalized Treatment Plans:
✔ There is no one-size-fits-all treatment.
✔ The best approach depends on the cancer stage, risk category (low/intermediate/high), and patient’s overall health.
🔹 Multidisciplinary Collaboration:
✔ A team of urologists, oncologists, and radiation specialists ensures the most effective treatment strategy.
🔹 Regular Follow-Ups:
✔ PSA monitoring, clinical exams, and imaging help track cancer progression and detect potential recurrence early.
🔹 Quality of Life Considerations:
✔ Newer surgical techniques (3D laparoscopic, robotic-assisted) and supportive therapies help reduce long-term complications (incontinence, erectile dysfunction).
✔ Lifestyle modifications and psychological support improve overall well-being.
📢 The right prostate cancer treatment is determined through a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and personalized therapy increase the chances of successful disease control—or even complete remission—while preserving a high quality of life.
❤️ Post-Treatment Recovery & Quality of Life
Completing prostate cancer treatment—whether through surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of methods—marks not just the end of a challenging journey but the beginning of a new chapter. Recovery and improving quality of life become top priorities.
With modern techniques, targeted physiotherapy, and multidisciplinary support, most men can return to a normal lifestyle within a few months.
🚻 Urinary Incontinence After Treatment
Why does incontinence occur?
✔ Primarily after radical prostatectomy, the urethral sphincters and surrounding muscles may be affected.
Modern Techniques for Incontinence Prevention:
✔ 3D laparoscopic & robotic-assisted surgery have significantly reduced incontinence rates by minimizing damage to urinary control structures.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for Faster Recovery:
✔ Kegel exercises and specialized therapy programs help strengthen pelvic muscles, accelerating the return to normal urinary control.
Recovery Timeline:
✔ Significant improvement is reported within 3–6 months
✔ Most men regain full continence within 12 months
⚡ Erectile Dysfunction (ED) After Treatment
What causes ED?
✔ During radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy, nerves responsible for erections may be affected.
Nerve-Sparing Techniques:
✔ Precision surgical methods help preserve nerve function, improving erectile recovery rates.
Available Treatments for ED:
✅ Oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors, e.g., Sildenafil, Tadalafil)
✅ Penile injections (e.g., Alprostadil)
✅ Vacuum erection devices (VEDs)
✅ Penile implants (for severe cases)
Penile Rehabilitation:
✔ Many doctors recommend a rehabilitation period using medications or vacuum devices to maintain blood flow and speed up erectile recovery.
🧠 Psychosocial Support After Prostate Cancer Treatment
Why is it important?
✔ Helps manage anxiety, stress, mood changes, and body image concerns after treatment.
Supportive Resources:
✅ Individual or group psychotherapy
✅ Couples counseling (if sexual changes affect relationships)
✅ Patient support groups (sharing experiences & encouragement)
The Role of Family Support:
✔ Emotional and practical assistance from loved ones plays a crucial role in psychological recovery.
🥗 Key Factors for a Full Recovery
🏃♂️ Diet & Exercise
✔ A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein improves overall health and immunity.
✔ Moderate exercise (walking, swimming, light strength training) 3–5 times per week boosts energy, supports heart health, and speeds up recovery.
🩺 Preventive Monitoring & PSA Follow-Ups
✔ Regular PSA tests and clinical check-ups help detect any recurrence early.
✔ Ongoing collaboration with a urologist/oncologist ensures long-term treatment success.
💊 Pain Management Strategies
✔ If pain occurs (post-radiation or advanced stages), specialized painkillers and combination therapies can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.
📊 Recovery Timeline & Long-Term Outcomes
✔ Clinical studies show that most men regain a normal daily routine within 6–12 months after surgery or radiation therapy.
✔ Over 80% report improved urinary and sexual function within a year, with supportive treatments helping address lingering issues.
🔑 Key to successful recovery:
✔ Active patient participation in rehabilitation programs
✔ Psychological support to maintain mental well-being
🌟 Life After Prostate Cancer: Moving Forward with Confidence
Life after prostate cancer treatment can be fulfilling and active despite initial challenges.
Thanks to modern surgical & radiation techniques, proper medical follow-ups, and patient education, men can successfully restore function and maintain a high quality of life.
With the right guidance & support, most men can continue enjoying life to the fullest.
🏆 Prostate Cancer Prevention & Healthy Lifestyle
Adopting a healthy lifestyle not only helps reduce the risk of prostate cancer but also enhances overall health and quality of life. While no lifestyle change guarantees complete protection, scientific research has linked several factors to a lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer and better post-treatment outcomes.
🥗 Mediterranean Diet for Prostate Health
Key components:
✔ Fresh fruits & vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and lean meats
✔ Olive oil as the primary fat source
✔ Limiting processed foods and added sugars
Why it matters:
✔ The Mediterranean diet is associated with better cardiovascular health and a potentially lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
✔ Antioxidants (e.g., lycopene in tomatoes) and polyphenols (e.g., in olive oil) protect cells from damage.
🏃♂️ Physical Activity & Prostate Health
Recommended exercise types:
✅ Aerobic activities (walking, running, swimming) 3–5 times per week
✅ Strength training (weightlifting, resistance bands) 2–3 times per week
Health benefits:
✔ Improves metabolism and cardiovascular function
✔ Helps maintain a healthy weight
✔ Reduces stress & improves mood
Tips for consistency:
✔ Start gradually, especially if you’re new to exercise or have existing health conditions.
✔ Choose activities you enjoy to maintain a long-term fitness routine.
⚖️ Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Why it’s important:
✔ Obesity is linked to higher rates of aggressive prostate cancer and worse outcomes for diagnosed patients.
Practical tips:
✔ Balance calorie intake by reducing processed foods & unhealthy fats.
✔ Eat small, frequent meals rich in fiber to control hunger and avoid overeating.
✔ Combine healthy eating with exercise for gradual weight loss when necessary.
🍷🚭 Alcohol Moderation & Smoking Cessation
🍷 Alcohol & Prostate Cancer Risk
✔ Excessive alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, including prostate cancer.
✔ WHO recommends moderate drinking: up to 1–2 drinks per day for men (less is better).
🚭 Smoking & Prostate Cancer
✔ Smoking increases mortality risk from many cancers & cardiovascular diseases.
✔ Quitting smoking improves lung health and lowers cancer risks.
✔ Support programs (medications & counseling) can help achieve long-term smoking cessation.
🩺 Annual Preventive Screening for Prostate Cancer
🕒 When to Start Screening
✅ Men aged 50+ should begin routine prostate screenings.
✅ Men with a family history (father/brother with prostate cancer) should start at 45 or earlier.
🔬 Key Screening Tests
✔ PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen blood test)
✔ Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) to assess prostate enlargement or abnormalities
✔ Additional imaging (e.g., ultrasound, multiparametric MRI - mpMRI) if needed
🔑 Why Screening is Essential
✔ Early detection dramatically improves survival rates.
✔ Increases the success of treatment & preserves quality of life.
🌿 Comprehensive Well-Being: Beyond Diet & Exercise
🔹 Hydration & Rest:
✔ Staying hydrated and getting quality sleep are crucial for overall health.
🔹 Stress Management:
✔ Relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation, mindfulness) help regulate hormonal balance and reduce inflammation.
🔹 Regular Medical Consultation:
✔ Early medical intervention for urinary issues, prostatitis symptoms, or prostate enlargement prevents minor concerns from developing into serious conditions.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Living a Healthy & Prostate-Protective Life
A proactive approach to nutrition, exercise, weight control, and routine medical check-ups significantly reduces prostate cancer risk and promotes long-term health. By making small, consistent changes, men can optimize their well-being and improve their chances of leading a full, active, and cancer-free life.
📈 Key Statistics on Prostate Cancer
📊 Prevalence & Incidence
✔ 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lifetime.
✔ Over 65% of cases occur in men over 65, with the average age at diagnosis around 66.
✔ Globally, more than 1.4 million new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed annually, making it one of the five most common cancers in men.
🔬 Prognosis & Survival Rates
✔ When diagnosed early (localized stage), the 5-year survival rate exceeds 98%, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
✔ In metastatic cases, 5-year survival rates drop to 30–40%, highlighting the need for advanced therapies & continuous monitoring.
✔ Over the last decade, preventive screenings & innovative treatments have significantly improved 10-year & 15-year survival rates for early-stage prostate cancer.
🤖 The Role of Robotic Surgery
✔ Robotic radical prostatectomy has become the preferred choice in over 70% of prostate surgeries in developed countries.
✔ Advancements in robotic techniques have significantly reduced complications like urinary incontinence & erectile dysfunction, enhancing post-surgical quality of life.
✔ 3D laparoscopic & robotic-assisted surgeries continue to show high success rates, leading to shorter hospital stays & faster recovery times.
🩺 The Power of Early Detection
✔ PSA screening & regular digital rectal exams (DRE) have led to more early-stage diagnoses, increasing the chance of curative treatment.
✔ Countries with organized screening programs report higher rates of early detection & better 5-year survival outcomes.
📉 Trends & Future Perspectives
✔ Despite a rise in new diagnoses (mainly due to widespread PSA screening), prostate cancer mortality rates have been declining in many countries.
✔ This decline is credited to innovative treatments, improved surgical techniques, and holistic patient care.
✔ Ongoing research focuses on personalized medicine (molecular diagnostics, genetic testing) to refine cancer classification & enhance treatment efficacy.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Prostate cancer statistics highlight both its high prevalence and the remarkable treatment success achievable through early diagnosis & modern therapies.
✔ Strengthening screening programs
✔ Raising awareness of symptoms
✔ Advancing surgical & pharmaceutical treatments
… all play a crucial role in reducing mortality and improving patient quality of life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Prostate Cancer
🔍 Should I have a PSA test every year after turning 50?
✔ Guidelines recommend that men begin prostate cancer screening (PSA test & clinical exam) at age 50.
✔ Family history matters: If a father or brother has had prostate cancer, screening should start at 45—or earlier—based on medical advice.
✔ How often? Typically once per year, but if PSA levels are very low, screening may be done every two years.
🤔 What is the difference between 3D Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery?
✔ 3D Laparoscopic Surgery: Uses a 3D camera & laparoscopic instruments. The surgeon directly controls the tools while viewing the surgical area on a high-definition 3D screen.
✔ Robotic Surgery (e.g., Da Vinci system): The surgeon operates robotic arms from a console, offering a highly stable, magnified 3D view with greater precision.
💡 The choice depends on patient-specific factors, technology availability, and surgeon expertise.
🚩 If my PSA is high, does it mean I have prostate cancer?
❌ Not necessarily! Elevated PSA can also be due to:
✔ Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
✔ Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)
✔ Recent sexual activity
Further evaluation includes:
✅ Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)
✅ MRI-guided targeted biopsy (MRI Fusion Biopsy)
🕑 How long is the recovery after 3D laparoscopic or robotic prostate surgery?
✔ Hospital stay: Usually 1–2 days, depending on the case.
✔ Light activities: Most men return to light daily tasks in 2–3 weeks.
✔ Full recovery: Generally, 2–3 months before resuming normal activity levels, depending on physical condition & medical advice.
🙋 Is erectile dysfunction (ED) permanent after surgery?
✔ Nerve-sparing techniques help preserve erectile function in many cases.
✔ Temporary ED is common after surgery, but many patients see gradual improvement.
Available ED treatments:
✅ Oral medications (PDE5 inhibitors - Sildenafil, Tadalafil, etc.)
✅ Penile injections (e.g., Alprostadil)
✅ Vacuum erection devices (VEDs)
✅ Penile implants (for severe cases)
💡 "Penile rehabilitation" (gradual therapy with medications & devices) helps improve blood flow & recovery.
🏃 Can I exercise and return to normal activities after treatment?
✔ Mild aerobic activity (walking, light cycling) is encouraged after initial recovery.
✔ Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for 6–8 weeks.
✔ Most patients return to normal physical activity in 2–3 months, based on medical recommendations.
👨👩👧👦 Will my fertility be affected after radical prostatectomy?
✔ Semen production stops permanently (dry orgasm), as the prostate & seminal vesicles are removed.
✔ Sperm banking (freezing sperm) is recommended before surgery for men who wish to preserve fertility.
✔ Sexual activity can continue, and erectile function may be preserved depending on the nerve-sparing approach.
🩺 What if I need radiation or hormone therapy after surgery?
✔ Radiation therapy may be recommended if there are high-risk factors (e.g., high Gleason score, suspected recurrence).
✔ Hormone therapy (ADT) is used for locally advanced or metastatic disease and can be combined with radiation for better control.
🎯 The goal: Reduce recurrence risk & extend survival in aggressive prostate cancer cases.
🥗 Is there a specific diet that helps after treatment?
✔ Mediterranean Diet: Fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, olive oil, and reduced red meat intake.
✔ Hydration: Supports kidney & urinary tract health.
✔ Nutritional supplements: Lycopene (found in tomatoes) & polyphenols (green tea) are being studied, but a balanced diet is key.
🧘 How can I manage anxiety related to diagnosis & treatment?
✔ Education: Understanding your treatment plan reduces uncertainty.
✔ Support groups: Talking to other patients or joining therapy groups can offer emotional relief.
✔ Professional help: Psychological therapy helps manage stress, body image concerns, and sexual health changes.
📌 Summary
These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) cover PSA testing, treatment options (3D laparoscopic vs. robotic surgery), recovery, erectile function, fertility, and diet after prostate cancer treatment.
A holistic approach & expert medical guidance are key to achieving the best outcomes & maintaining quality of life.