In a nutshell
This study aimed to investigate long-term outcomes of radiation therapy after prostate surgery for prostate cancer. This study found that this is a safe treatment option for these patients.
Some background
Prostate surgery is a common treatment for prostate cancer (PCa). Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is another option. This type of radiation is very precise and is thought to lessen side-effects after treatment. IMRT after prostate surgery may reduce the risk of recurrence in high-risk patients. However, the safety of IMRT after prostate surgery remains under investigation.
Methods & findings
This study included 199 men with prostate cancer. All patients had prostate surgery followed by IMRT. 66% of the patients also had hormone therapy. They were followed up for 33 months. They completed questionnaires about their quality of life.
4 years after treatment, 94% of men did not have any serious urinary side-effects (burning, bleeding). 95% of men did not experience bowel upset (diarrhea, pain). Risk factors for having more side-effects and a lower quality of life after treatment were noted. High body mass index, older age, smoking, and higher treatment doses were risk factors for a lower quality of life.
The bottom line
This study found that surgery followed by IMRT is a safe treatment option for PCa.
The fine print
Some patients were lost at follow-up. This might influence the results. Further studies are needed.
Published By :
European Urology
Date :
May 18, 2019
