Let’s talk about Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer - Detection, Second Opinions and Treatment No matter how we all try to do the right thing for our bodies with a healthy diet and exercise program, we can never underestimate the forces at work beyond our control. We hear it all the time with friends or family members who seem to be in shape, eat right, stay active and yet, are diagnosed with something that can be life altering. For men in particular, the prostate has become an increasing concern. It is extremely vital for men at the age of fifty, to be aware of the risks involved as the prostate normally changes with age. The best way to do this is with yearly check-ups that include a physical prostate exam as well as a blood test screening which includes the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) levels. PSA is a protein in the cells that rises with the onset of infection or glandular enlargement and has become the means to early detection. If your levels are higher than what is deemed normal, your physician will recommend a biopsy to be performed from sample cells taken. If you are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, it is essential as with anything to feel comfortable with your doctor and the diagnosis given. It is the patients’ responsibility to seek a second opinion and to request a second testing of the biopsied matter which is always a sound idea. All this will protect you and make you feel more comfortable and confident in your doctors’ diagnosis. You will not be hurting your doctors’ feelings by requesting a second opinion, in fact, a reputable physician will most likely recommend it. With several treatment options available, your physician will keep you informed based on your biopsy results and your personal health record. The da Vinci ® Prostatectomy is the #1 choice for treatment of localized prostate cancer in the United States. da Vinci® is being utilized by an increasing number of surgeons worldwide for the delicate prostatectomy procedure. It is a minimally invasive approach, which uses the latest in surgical and robotics technologies. It is ideal for prostate surgery where the target site is not only tightly confined but also surrounded by nerves affecting urinary control and sexual function. Using the da Vinci®, your surgeon has a better tool to spare those delicate and critical surrounding nerves. This may improve your recovery experience and clinical outcome in the long term. Dr. Saurabh Agarwal has expertise in laparoscopic and robotic surgery to treat conditions of the prostate. He has extensive experience with da Vinci® robotic surgery and has monitored other physicians on the use of the device. Visit Dr. Agarwal’s website at www.agarwalrobotics.com for more information or to make an appointment.