The first is surgical. A radical prostatectomy is the most common surgery for prostate cancer. A surgeon removes the prostate gland together with some of the surrounding tissue, taking great care to avoid damage to nerves and other nearby structures in order to minimize side-effects. The effectiveness of newer forms of surgery such as cryosurgery and laser surgery, which are available in some centres, is currently being evaluated. The second category is radiation therapy, which is given as daily outpatient treatments for 4 to 6 weeks.
Radiation is targeted to the prostate and pelvis and causes the cancer to shrink or even disappear.
The third category is hormonal therapies, which are intended to suppress the secretion of testosterone, leading to a decrease in the size of the prostate cancer. The timing of treatment is controversial, especially in early cases and in men over 70 years of age. With this fourth option, treatment is postponed and PSA tests are performed at three to six month intervals to monitor change in the status of the prostate. Treatment is considered if persistent and rapid changes are detected. Watchful waiting may also be chosen by men who believe that the benefits of treatment for them do not outweigh the risk of treatment complications.