Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in San Antonio, TX
Prostate cancer starts in the prostate, a gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate contains several types of cells, but nearly all prostate cancers develop from glandular cells, which make fluid that becomes part of semen. Prostate cancer cells spread by invading nearby organs and tissues, such as the bladder or rectum, or by traveling through the blood or lymph to other parts of the body. This is known as metastatic prostate cancer. Other than the lymph nodes near the prostate, the most common site of prostate cancer spread, or metastasis, is the bones, especially in the spine.
As one of the most often diagnosed cancers in all of the United States, prostate cancer undeniably affects millions of men even though they may not be diagnosed with the condition until the cancer has progressed.
Screening for prostate cancer in men in the appropriate setting by obtaining a prostate specific antigen blood test (PSA) is important because many men do not have symptoms. In most cases this form of cancer is first diagnosed by obtaining a sample of the prostate tissue by performing a prostate biopsy. Based upon the grade and stage of the cancer and each patient’s unique situation, options for management may include closely monitoring the cancer (active surveillance) or treatment with either surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or a combination of one or more of those treatments.
Prostate Cancer Surgery
We offer the latest advancements in prostate cancer surgery, including laparoscopic surgery utilizing the da Vinci robotic surgical system.
The minimally-invasive da Vinci system uses precise, miniaturized robotic tools to remove tumors from the prostate. Tiny instruments are introduced through several small incisions and are controlled (not pre-programmed) by your surgeon from a nearby console. These high-tech instruments are able to perfectly mimic the hand motions of the doctor.
The robotic system also provides a 3D, high definition visualization of the prostate and adjacent tissues, giving Dr. Thompson, Dr. James, and Dr. Barney a view of the surgical site that is far superior to that of the human eye. Robotic surgery generally allows the procedure to be performed with less blood loss and post-operative pain than performing the surgery in the traditional manner.
Radiation for Prostate Cancer
South Texas Urology Group collaborates closely with radiation oncology specialists to offer comprehensive radiation therapy options for the treatment of prostate cancer, including brachytherapy (internal radiation therapy). During brachytherapy, tiny radioactive “seeds” the size of a grain of rice are implanted into the prostate. The implants deliver a low dose of radiation over a period of several months.
Chemotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Chemotherapy can be useful in cases of advanced prostate cancer when the disease has metastasized to other locations, or when the cancer has not been responsive to more conventional hormonal therapy methods. We collaborate closely with our medical oncology colleagues to offer chemotherapy and other multi-disciplinary forms of treatment to optimize outcomes in their unique situation.
