What are the other treatment options for recurrent prostate cancer?

Below are the most common treatment options for men with recurrent prostate cancer:

Salvage Prostatectomy (removal of the prostate). This surgery is typically performed in high volume centers, but the complication rate for this surgery is much higher than a non-salvage prostatectomy. Studies show the incontinence rate can be between 17-67% following a salvage prostatectomy.

Hormonal Therapy. While hormones can prevent prostate cancer from spreading, it does not cure recurrent prostate cancer. Additionally, there are many widely reported side effects due to the use of hormones, including but not limited to:

• -Hot flashes
• -Bone loss/higher risk of fracture
• -Reduced sex drivev
• Breast enlargement
• Possible cardiovascular side effects
• Possible effect on insulin/glucose regulation
• Possible effects on cognition
• Increase weight gain, specifically belly fat

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has issued a warning about the link between hormonal therapy and heart disease and diabetes in prostate cancer patients. Click Here

Radiation Therapy. If the primary (or first) treatment for prostate cancer is radiation, some centers offer additional radiation as a salvage treatment. There are increased complications associated with additional radiation exposure.