Q. Is radiation therapy a better option than surgery for treating prostate cancer?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Radiation therapy and surgery are two potential treatments for prostate cancer. The best option will depend on a number of factors, including the stage and severity of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient.
Radiation therapy is an effective treatment for prostate cancer in certain cases where surgery is not indicated or feasible. It typically involves external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy (internal radiation). External beam radiotherapy delivers high-energy X-rays or protons to the cancerous area from outside the body over a period of several weeks, while brachytherapy involves implanting radioactive materials directly into tissue near and around tumors. In general, radiation therapy has fewer side effects in comparison with surgery, though it may take longer to produce results. When opting for this method, patients usually experience improved quality of life since there is no cutting involved and no risk of significant bleeding.
In some cases when surrounding structures need to be spared due to their proximity to tumors (such as nerve bundles), radiation therapy can offer excellent control rates (95%) with minimal damage compared to other options like radical prostatectomy whichwould require removal of surrounding tissue along with affected tissues - at times sacrificing urinary continence or sexual function as a result. On other hand, if tumor size/stage allows it might be better suited for surgical resection which would give better prognostic outcome but will involve long recovery period due to always associated risks such edema(fluid retention) and blood loss , depending on complexity .
Therefore it can be concluded that both approaches have its pros & cons so its important decisions needs careful considerations between doctor & patient together .
Related Posts
Aptamil Pepti Infant Formula 0 to 12 Months Tin 400gm
Brand: Nutricia International Private Limited
₹2000.00₹1960.00
View Details
Neocate LCP Infant Formula Powder 400GM
Brand: Nutricia International Private Limited
