Treatment Options

This article contains information about how prostate cancer is staged and the surgical procedures that can be used to treat prostate cancer.

A prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the prostate gland, surrounding tissue, and seminal vesicles for the treatment of prostate cancer.

A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure done to remove prostate tissue, which is performed through the urethra.

Radiation treatment can be used in the treatment of prostate cancer. This article provides information regarding the possible side effects of radiation treatment for prostate cancer.

Some providers may suggest the use of SpaceOAR with treatment. The use of SpaceOAR can reduce radiation exposure to the rectum, and potentially reduce side effects from radiation therapy.

Some providers may suggest the use of an endorectal balloon with treatment to reduce radiation exposure to the rectum, and potentially reduce side effects from radiation therapy.

Brachytherapy may be part of your treatment plan for prostate cancer. One possible side effect is seeds leaving the prostate and moving to another part of the body, most often the bladder or lung.

The article provides an overview of androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. Interfering with testosterone can slow the growth of prostate cancer but has significant side effects, including affects on sexuality, cardiac and bone health. This article also provides tips and resources for managing these side effects.

Hormone therapy blocks the action of hormones that may fuel the growth of breast, prostate and some other cancers. Hormones are chemicals that are naturally produced by the organs making up the body's endocrine system.

When starting LHRH therapy for prostate cancer, there may be a brief increase in testosterone levels and side effects which is called tumor flare.

Cryotherapy (also called cryosurgery) uses very cold temperatures to “freeze” prostate tissue and kill cancer cells.

Introduction to cyberknife, a type of radiation treatment that can be used for prostate cancer.