Prostate cancer surgery (prostatectomy) involves the removal of a section or the whole prostate gland. This treatment is one of many alternatives for curing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP) and prostate cancer. Doctors recommend this option when your prostate gland has advanced cancer. This piece discusses some facts to keep in mind when pursuing this alternative.

Success Rate

Surgery for removing malignant tissue is effective when performed before cancer spreads to other parts of the body. In addition, the doctors weigh the risk of surgery and the benefits before recommending this procedure. The procedure takes a few hours, and the patient is under general anesthesia. The incision is also small, which makes recovery fast and safe.

This procedure is also highly successful when used alongside other treatment options. For example, you may receive short and intensive radiation therapy treatments after surgery without elevating the levels of side effects. Radiation therapy helps fight cancer and reduce the levels of prostate-specific antigen in the blood (the antigen shows the likelihood of a person getting prostate cancer.

Managing Side Effects

Doctors handle most of the side effects in the post-operation observation room. For example, the doctors and nurses monitor for blood clots, infections, and issues related to the anesthesia used during surgery. This observation helps minimise any side effects of the incision and ensures your safety. 

Other side effects of prostatectomy include erectile dysfunction and urinary inconsistency. The doctor administers different medications to help prevent erectile dysfunction, especially in people who undergo nerve-sparing radical surgery. Doctors may also recommend Kegels, which strengthen the pelvic floor and help you regain control over your bladder and bowel functions.  

Dietary Choices

Some of the first items you need after your surgery include light foods such as liquids, soup, yogurt, and sandwiches until you get a bowel movement. Restrict your diet to items that do not cause gas, such as cauliflower, onions or cabbage. Visit your doctor instantly if you experience any side effects from foods you eat such as blood in stool, diarrhea, nausea, constipation or vomiting. 

Another valuable step you must take is choosing foods that impede cancer recurrence. Some recommendable choices include lean sources of proteins, low-fat milk products, and plant-based foods. Use spices and vegetables instead of sugary foods if you crave flavorful foods. Other foods such as whole grains (oats, barley and quinoa) have fibre that is key in preventing cancer. 

Prostate cancer surgery has a high success rate, especially when combined with other treatment options. You must also adhere to recommendations regarding managing side effects and choosing the proper diet.  For more information on prostate cancer surgery, contact a professional near you.