THERE WAS NO RESPONSE TO AN UPDATE REMINDER IN 2016 SO THERE IS NO UPDATE.
After a number of years of a rising PSA, my GP referred me to a urologist. The urologist performed a DRE (Digital Rectal Examination) which was normal. He suggested a biopsy which was performed on October 20, 2009. The biopsy indicated that 3 cores were malignant, both sides of the prostate. The amount of cancer cells per core were 5%, 12% and 16%. The urologist assured us that is was small and the Gleason score of 6 indicated that it was not aggressive. The urologist that performed the biopsy (not pleasant), suggested surgery with other treatment options.
I investigated options with physician friends along with the internet. I decided that robotic laparoscopic surgery was appropriate and the best option. The next step was to get a qualified experienced surgeon . My urologist did not perform the robotic surgery. Again after some research I selected Dr. Eric Mayer at St. Lukes Hospital in Bethlehem Pa. He has performed hundreds of the operations over five years with good results.
The operation was performed on February, 10, 2010. I was in the hospital for two evenings with little pain. The most uncomfortable problem was gas which dissipated after 2 days. Recovery from the surgery was quick and painless however the catheter is not pleasant.
Visited the surgeon on February 18, 2009 for a quick check-up and biopsy discussion. The biopsy confirmed a Gleason 6 with clear margins. I was informed that the operation lasted 1.5 hours and all looked well. My next appointment is for February 24, 2009 for catheter removal.
Later: My catheter was removed by a RN on February 24, 2010, two weeks after surgery. It was a day which I anticipated as freedom day although I was concerned about the extraction....especially since I had some irritation at the tip of my penis. After a second of sensation...it was out---no pain and freedom!
I was prepared for a degree of incontinence however I have been dry for a few days. Only when exerting myself I have a few drips...I count myself as lucky and grateful. Although my urination has been frequent, it seems to be calming down after a few days. All is good.
Back to the urologist/surgeon on March 25 with a PSA test scheduled for March 18. We will review the test along with some medication to increase blood flow to the penis.
March 25 2010: 6 weeks after surgery appointment with surgeon. Review of PSA test indicates a very low PSA reading ( lab testing does not register below .05). Scheduled for another test and appointment in 3 months.
The surgeon/urologist prescribed Cialis every five days (expensive) to initiate more blood flow. I have had minor leakage, not using pads and no erections.
Next report - June
Updated PSA test was < .05...visited urologist...all normal. Next PSA test in 3 months.
PSA reading at < .05. Renewing Cialis after not taking it for a month. As expected , I still have ED. Next PSA reading in 3 months.
It has been 26 months since my robotic prostatectomy . I have had PSA reading of zero every 3 months since the surgery . My urinary tract is 100% without any incontinence . I have not been able to have a complete erection although the blood flow seems to be ok. I feel fortunate.
After 2 years plus, I am cancer free. I have my PSA tested annually by my primary doctor. I have not been able to have an erection but all other urinary aspects are fine.
All is good, 0 PSA which is done annually. Last PSA blood test due for 12/2014. Nothing new.
The 5 years have past and I have not had a PSA test in the past year. All is well.
Walter's e-mail address is: roetting1 AT ptd.net (replace "AT" with "@")
NOTE: Walter has not updated his story for more than 15 months, so you may not receive any response from him.
