In the past, surgical complications like incontinence and impotence were common. Like most experts, DeKernion points out that every prostate cancer patient is unique. Depending on the details of the case, certain therapies can be more appropriate than others. Six to eight needles called cryoprobes are inserted into the prostate, which is then frozen by injected liquefied argon gas. The procedure is far less invasive than a radical prostatectomy and enjoys faster recovery rates, shorter hospital stays and less severe side effects.
Radiation There are several types of radiation therapy.
Impotence and incontinence are less likely, but inflammation of the rectal tissue is a concern. This technique allows oncologists to deliver much higher radiation doses without damaging surrounding tissues. After implantation, patients are often treated with external beam radiation. One of the possible drawbacks of radiation therapy occurs when cancer returns. Nor can surgery be performed because the radiation fuses prostate tissue to the rectum and bladder.