If prostate cancer is suspected, a TRUS biopsy may be recommended. This ultrasound-guided biopsy can be used to diagnose prostate cancer in patients with an abnormal digital rectal exam or elevated PSA. This office-based procedure performed under local anesthetic in about 10 minutes is very well tolerated.
If cancer is diagnosed, the next step is to establish the “stage.” Staging includes the PSA level, result of the rectal exam, and grade or aggressiveness of the cancer determined by the biopsy. Staging may also include the results of radiographic imaging to help determine if there is any spread of the cancer to other organs.
Treatment is tailored to each patient. Options may include observation or “watchful waiting” for older men with low-grade and slow-growing tumors, medical therapies, radiation and surgery. The treatment decision should be made with a urologist, but may also include consultation with a family doctor and radiation oncologist. St. Luke’s offers advanced options for prostate cancer, including robotic prostatectomy.
Treatment options for prostate cancer may include the following:
Robotic Prostatectomy
The minimally-invasive robotic prostatectomy is the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical option for qualified prostate cancer patients. It results in small incisions, decreased pain, significant reduction in blood loss and faster recovery. While this technique provides excellent cancer control, it simultaneously improves quality of life by sparing nerves for erectile function and preserving the bladder control mechanism, further decreasing the risk of urinary incontinence.
For additional information on programs, services and locations, download and print the following PDFs:
St. Luke’s Radiation Oncology Program Guide
St. Luke’s Infusion Centers Guide
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