Too large for Davinci?

prezmic
prezmic Member Posts: 36
in Prostate Cancer #1
I was diagnosed in April with PSA 9.6 and Gleason 3+4. I am 52 years old and weigh over 300 lbs. I was convinced that I would have Davinci surgery and found a Dr in Pittsburgh. He recommended that I explore IMRT since I am on the larger side for ease of surgery. After more office visits and research, I am almost sold on IMRT with seed implants. I also dread any of the side effects of surgery, so I am comfortable with radiation. Just curious if the size issue is common.

Comments

  • ProfWagstaff
    ProfWagstaff Member Posts: 105 Member
    #2
    I guess it depends on the
    I guess it depends on the surgeon. I was close to 300 when diagnosed but dropped about 15 in the two months leading up to surgery. I've dropped another 12 in the two years since. It took me about three months to get off pads and I am thrilled with the choice I made - both in treatment choice and in choice of surgeon. Mine is in Rochester, NY - about 5 hours north of Pittsburgh.
  • robert1
    robert1 Member Posts: 82
    #3
    Good choice
    Dear prezmic:

    It sounds like we will be doing external raditaion and seeds at about the same time.

    Maybe fate has dealt you a better hand. If your PCa is truly local, long-term cure rates for experienced radio/brachytherapists are excellent. Usually with fewer negative side effects.

    Good luck!

    robert1
  • prezmic
    prezmic Member Posts: 36
    #4
    ProfWagstaff said:

    I guess it depends on the
    I guess it depends on the surgeon. I was close to 300 when diagnosed but dropped about 15 in the two months leading up to surgery. I've dropped another 12 in the two years since. It took me about three months to get off pads and I am thrilled with the choice I made - both in treatment choice and in choice of surgeon. Mine is in Rochester, NY - about 5 hours north of Pittsburgh.

    losing weight
    Yes, the Dr said that it is actually better if one loses weight before surgery - a little extra room in there, verses one who would gain just before surgery. I still am opting for the radiation treatments.

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