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In general, I tell them that pre-operative function is one of the most important predictors of post-operative function. The old saying, "use it or lose it" actually does apply.
More recently, there is mounting evidence that prophylactic PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis, etc.) even in small doses every other day may help increase blood flow to the penile region and hasten recovery of erectile function.
I would encourage you to ask your surgeon if they or their colleagues have a program of "rehabiliation" for erectile function following surgery.View Thread
1. If you are overweight, try to lose weight leading up to surgery. Even a 5 to 10lb weight loss may make your surgical recovery faster.
2. Improve your cardiovascular fitness prior to surgery.
3. Early ambulation following surgery (later same day and in the days after surgery) will help recovery and reduce likelihood of complications such as pneumonia.
4. As soon as the catheter comes out start Kegel exercises and "penile rehab." (ie, daily viagra/cialis/levitra, use of pump, etc.)
5. A healthy diet and regular exercise following surgery is just as important afterwards.View Thread
1. Have extra copies of all your records (biopsy reports, office notes, etdc.)
2. Have copies of any films (bone scans, MRI, CT) -- note -- you should have not only a copy of the report but also the images on either a CD or hard copy. Many times a surgeon or rad onc may want to review the films w/ a radiologist, so its wise to burn a few extra copy of the CD.
3. Bring a family member. Its always helpful to have an extra set of ears to listen and also help ask questions.
4. Don't be afraid to ask a surgeon or rad onc about his/her experience and comfort with a certain type of treatment. Are they more comfortable doing open or robotic surgery, etc?
5. Write down pertinent questions so you won't forget to ask.
6. Don't be scared to tell your doctor that you are getting second opinions. We often expect this and are not offended. I actually find it helpful for patients to get a different perspective since every doctor approaches things slightly differently.
Best of luck,
Basir Tareen, MDView Thread
A new diagnosis of cancer often leaves patients feeling helpless. Once you have done the appropriate research and discussed treatment options I have a few tips for those men who choose radical prostatectomy.
1. Attempt to "get in shape" and if you are overweight, consider losing some weight prior to surgery. I find that men who are in excellent cardiovascular health, often bounce back quicker after surgery.
2. Learn about and practice Kegel exercises. These (often simple) exercises will help the return to continence after surgery.
3. For those men who are sexually active, ask your urologist if it is appropriate to begin prophylactic treatment with ED medications just prior to and during the immediate post-operative period.
Best of luck to those preparing for and undergoing surgery.View Thread
Does anyone out there drink Essiac Tea? To combat PCa? Or merely for good health?View Thread
Starting a week before the test, if I drink too much booze and coffee my readings tend to jump up.
A year ago, I really watched my diet and was taking 6 Advils per day for an injury and my PSA went to 7.
Has anyone done work on the impact of diet on the PSA reading?View Thread
I have been taking rather large doses os Folic Acid in my multivitamin. Prevention magazine ran a study that showed high doses of Folic acid can cause increased prostate cancer growth in men who have not had sugery. Nedless to say, I have stopped taking my Multivitamin untill further notice.View Thread
I HAVE ALMOST A YEARS EXPERIENCE AFTER TREATMENT WITH CYBERKNIFE AND WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE PROCEDURE AND POST TREATMENT SIDE EFFECTS.View Thread
But If you're finding how discussions and responses are displayed now is a bit confusing, are wondering how to keep track, and would like a more traditional view of an exchange, you can do that!
When you come to an exchange, click on the Discussions link on the upper left sidebar and voila!
(You can do the same if you want to just look at tips or resources.)
To go back to the view you get when you first come in to an exchange, just click on the Exchange Home link on the upper left sidebar.View Thread
To reduce the font size, hold down the Ctrl key (lower left on your keyboard) and the plus sign at the same time.View Thread
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