Conditions

Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer in American men. An elevated PSA, abnormal examination or strong family history of prostate cancer can be the first indicators of possible prostate cancer. But the only means to diagnosis prostate cancer is by a prostate biopsy.

We here at West Georgia Urology use state-of-the-art equipment when a biopsy is required along with ultrasound guided nerve blocks to minimize discomfort. Our staff recognizes that this diagnosis can be life-changing and takes special care to provide the patient and those close to the patient with support and counseling to help eliminate as many concerns as possible. We treat each patient with an individualized plan to provide the best possible outcome.

Evaluation

The evaluation begins with a detailed history and physical examination and may include the following:

• PSA
• Urinalysis
• Urine Culture and sensitivity
• Urinary symptom score evaluation
• Digital rectal examination
• Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy
• CT scan
• Bone scan

Treatment

We will first determine the aggressiveness of the tumor and whether it appears to be contained within the prostate through clinical staging. In determining the severity of the cancer, the Gleason score and the clinical stage of the cancer will be used to determine the prognosis and treatment selection recommended by the physician. The course of treatment will be individualized and is influenced by the stage of the cancer, age of the patient, and other medical problems. Treatment options include the following:

• Watchful waiting / Active Surveillance
• Pelvic lymph node dissection
• Nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy
• Prostate brachytherapy (radiation seed placement)
• External beam radiotherapy
• Hormonal ablation therapy
• Chemotherapy