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I have been in active surveillance under the care of my Urologist who has a good reputation for approx. three years. During this three year period I have had three Biopsies. My first Biopsy was 2 cores positive for Cancer. One core less than 1% involvement with the second core less than 5% involvement with PIN present in a few other cores (Gleason 3+3=6). Second Biopsy no Cancer found with PIN present in a few cores. Third Biopsy same as first Biopsy. I have developed another problem with not being able to void. I am retaining large amount of fluid aprrox. 14oz. My Doctor is suggesting I remove the prostate instead of a TURP stating that I will be removing my prostate at some point anyway and if I do a TURP it will make the removal process more difficult. I have talked with a noted Urologist at the Cleveland Clinic and Turps are his specialty. He believes he may be able to perform a Green Light laser operation and put me back in good shape and will not compromise a later removal. I ran this past my original Urologist who was ok with the Green Light but thought I was just adding in another step in the process of an eventual removal. He thought that since of my age of 55 I was really to young to consider any long term success with the active surveillance. I am trying to decide if it is worth going through The greenlight procedure and continueing with the yearly Biopsies,which are no fun, or just remove the prostate and hope for the best? Has anyone had any long term success with A.S.? Ideas, suggestions, comments welcomed.
Given your youngish age, liquid retention health issues and the fact your doctor feels you'll eventually need to have the prostate removed I would 'personally' skip the Turp and hire the very very best surgeon to get rid of the prostate. The key is to get the best person to remove it to minimize the chance of complications. It's your decision to make but that is what I would do. I had mine removed when I was 58 by the top local specialist and other than now requiring Viagara it was kind of a non event. Perhaps I was just lucky. Who knows. Hope this is helpful.
Thanks for opinion. One day I lean towards the Turp/Surveillance, next day I lean towards the removal. I feel like I have been in Prostate Prison for the last 3-5 years. I am ready to be done with this thing despite the side effects. I just want to do the smart/best thing. Thanks again. These opinions and information helps greatly.
