Earlier Radiotherapy After Prostate Cancer Surgery Has Benefits

Founder of the renowned Prostate Seed Institute talks about the benefits of salvage radiotherapy.

Irving, TX  – Men who undergo radical prostatectomies to treat prostate cancer may soon find their doctors suggesting a secondary treatment step. Earlier use of radiotherapy following surgery has been shown in studies to improve patient outcomes even if prostate-specific antigen test results indicate relatively low levels.

“At present, salvage radiotherapy is generally reserved for use if PSA levels remain elevated or begin to rise following surgery,” explains Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Prostate Seed Institute. “This protocol is intended to spare men from the additional step in treatment and the rigors that radiation may involve. Research, however, is showing that considering radiotherapy sooner, even when PSA levels are only slightly elevated, can improve overall patient outcomes more readily than waiting.”

A recent study into the topic followed data related to more than 1,100 men who were treated for prostate cancer. Researchers determined that waiting to introduce salvage radiotherapy was linked with rises in biochemical recurrence, distant metastases and cause-specific mortality. Earlier use of this treatment, intended to irradiate any stray cancer cells left behind after surgery, improved patient outcomes.

“Men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer and are treated surgically may want to speak with their doctors about this potential follow-up step,” says Dr. Echt. “Research is showing that earlier intervention can have positive, long-term impacts.”

The American Cancer Society estimates more than 161,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the next year. Men who are diagnosed should review all treatment options, their potential benefits and risks, with their healthcare providers. Treatment options will hinge on the stage of diagnosis, a man’s age and the risk level of tumors found. Surgery is recommended in some cases, but other treatments such as brachytherapy may also be options.

About The Prostate Seed Institute

The Prostate Seed Institute is one of the country’s leading pioneers in prostate cancer treatment including prostate seed implementation, a fast and painless procedure that effectively treats prostate cancer in its earliest stages. With a team of oncology experts and a state-of-the-art facility, the Prostate Seed Institute provides prostate cancer patients with the most comprehensive treatment available.