When it comes to treating prostate cancer – the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among American men, only after lung cancer – oncologists often offer two options: (1) radiation treatment to the prostate, or (2) surgery to remove part or all of the prostate.
Typically, the choice is determined by the stage of the cancer and the age of the man. If it is localized, so it hasn’t spread outside the prostate, then either radiation or surgery are viable options. If the cancer has already metastasized (spread), then other options or a combination of treatments may be recommended.
As to which is better – radiation or surgery – both treatments are usually effective, reducing the risk that your prostate cancer will spread. The choice between the two often depends on your goals and preferences.
Is Surgery Necessary for Prostate Cancer?
If you want to get rid of the cancer and you are less concerned about the side effects, or if the prospect of traditional radiation treatment for weeks and weeks does not appeal to you, surgery may be your best option. On the other hand, if you want to treat your prostate cancer and avoid the main risks associated with the surgery – such as impotence and incontinence – then radiation therapy may be the way to go. Traditional radiation therapy can cause bowel problems, but the latest type of radiation treatment can avoid these side effects.
Other factors, such as your age, your overall health, and your lifestyle may also influence your decision on whether surgery is right for you. This is something you and your doctor can discuss before making up your mind.
Effective Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer
There is now an excellent alternative to invasive surgery and traditional radiation therapy that makes the whole treatment experience much easier and less risky. It’s called CyberKnife®, also known as The Beam of Life – and it’s a painless form of radiation therapy that uses advanced, image-guided robotics to precisely deliver high doses of radiation to prostate tumors. This system destroys the cancer cells without harming any nearby tissues or organs, which is the main concern with traditional radiation therapy.
Unlike surgery, CyberKnife is totally noninvasive, so there is no risk of bleeding, infection, or complications during healing. And, unlike traditional radiation therapy, CyberKnife targets the tumor while automatically adjusting to the slightest body movements – such as normal breathing – to treat only the cancer, sparing nearby organs of potential damage by the radiation.
What’s more, CyberKnife is a more convenient and relaxing procedure. Because it delivers such a high dosage of radiation, only several treatments are required, and they are usually completed within two week’s time.
Each session takes up to 60 minutes, and there is no downtime. Once you’ve completed your treatment, you can go right back to your normal routine. Plus, unlike with surgery or traditional radiation therapy, CyberKnife treatment has minimal side effects – which may include mild and temporary nausea or fatigue.
Advanced Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer in Miami
For more than three decades, CyberKnife technology has provided exceptional care for hundreds of thousands of cancer patients. Most of the men who have had this treatment for their prostate cancer have reported excellent results, and they especially appreciate the lack of side effects.
To find out if you are a candidate for this innovative approach to prostate cancer treatment, contact the CyberKnife Center of Miami today by calling us at (800) 204-0455 or (305) 279-2900 to schedule a private consultation. You can also fill out our online appointment request form, and we will contact you promptly. Let us help you tackle this cancer and continue enjoying the lifestyle you love! www.prostatecancertreatmentmiami.com