Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 HI:I had my LRRP in Jan of 2007, age 52, gleason 7, psa 5.5. Pain was mild, like I got kicked in the stomach. I would stay to full liquids an extra day, before trying soft food after surgery. I had severe cramping and I feel my intestinal activity was not up to normal. Use K-Y jelly to lubricate the tip of the penis where the catheter exits, to prevent irritation. I purchased a leg bag for during the day and a larger "drainage bag" of 1000 cc for at night, so I had less trips to the bathroom to empty. Walk early and frequently-very important to prevent blood clots in the legs. He will be able to do low level activity within a few days, then increase after the first week. My catheter came out in 10 days. Purchase adult diaper pads- I had two types, a larger one for the first few weeks, and a smaller one as continence improved. Wear briefs with the pads, much less chance of leaking. Be Patient! It can be very frustrating as sometimes it takes a few months to be fully continent. Best of luck,To: ProstateCancerSupport From: seabreezemomgrandma@...Date: Fri, 4 Jan 2008 21:57:16 +0000Subject: Got a question! Dear friends, Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house? I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were? Thanks. Watch “Cause Effect,” a show about real people making a real difference. Learn more Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 164 HINTS FOR RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY PATIENTS FROM RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY PATIENTS at http://www.malecare.com/prostate_cancer_surgery_patient_hints.htm I think that you will find the above webpages very helpful regarding post surgery hints and recovery. Darryl http://www.outwithcancer.com http://www.malecare.com ________________________________________________________________________________\ ____ Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hi, I just turned 53, PSA was 6.8, gleason 7 (3+4). I had surgery a little over a year ago. My personnal experience was that I was very weak at first, with noticable improvement every day. For about two weeks I did my best just to walk around the house. Once I removed my catheter, I felt a bit better and started to move around easier. I was doing light work around the house after a couple of weeks. At about 4-5 months out I was back to doing my everyday normal tasks for about 4 hours a day, then I'd have to take a break for 30 or 40 minutes before starting again. My major problem now is the incontenince. I still use a pad a day (sometimes two, depending on my activities and fluid intake). I still continue to see improvement however, and God willing, will be off the pad one day soon. Jack Got a question! Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hi - It will depend on whether your husband has robotic surgery or open surgery. Which will he be having?Mick seabreezemomgrandma wrote: Dear friends, Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house? I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were? Thanks. God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hi Jack, I stopped useing a pad after three months but still drip or squirt a little when coughing or passing gas.I find bending my knees when sneezing stops that from happening, the same with coughing. I had my surgery of the day than before the surgery. Overall I feel pretty good except for the ED issues. Good luck and god bless. JACK JETER wrote: Hi, I just turned 53, PSA was 6.8, gleason 7 (3+4). I had surgery a little over a year ago. My personnal experience was that I was very weak at first, with noticable improvement every day. For about two weeks I did my best just to walk around the house. Once I removed my catheter, I felt a bit better and started to move around easier. I was doing light work around the house after a couple of weeks. At about 4-5 months out I was back to doing my everyday normal tasks for about 4 hours a day, then I'd have to take a break for 30 or 40 minutes before starting again. My major problem now is the incontenince. I still use a pad a day (sometimes two, depending on my activities and fluid intake). I still continue to see improvement however, and God willing, will be off the pad one day soon. Jack Got a question! Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hi All, It seems that most of the people on this list favor surgery. I cannot understand why not many are looking at brachytherapy. I have seen patients have the seed implants, get up off the table 45 minutes later and go back to work. Not all of them do this, but some do. And the primary bladder valve is not involved so it is not damaged as is the case in a lot of the RPs. Each to his own- But please think and research before committing to a procedure that you will have to live with the rest of your life. Aubrey I wish you all the bestAubrey Pilgrim, DC (Ret.) Author ofA Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer-Read the original book for FREE at: http://www.prostatepointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/Read new edition for FREE at http://www.cancer.prostate-help.org/capilgr.htmDr. E. Crawford is co-author of the revision Hello, Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery no matter how they do it. What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition(I was 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. Good Luck to you and your husband. Rick Got a question! Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks.Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hi I had surgery in March and the recovery takes some time. A week with the catherer and than learning control of the shut off valve for 3 to 4 months. Stopped waring pads after the 4 month. I have complete control now but it takes time. I was able to lift like I did before after 4 months and can do almost everything I did before now. I recovered very quickly and only experience pain off and on for a week. I was 54 when I had mine. Just be patient and take it slow with him. The more you move around the quicker the recovery. seabreezemomgrandma wrote: Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 He will be having open surgery. Re: Got a question! Hi - It will depend on whether your husband has robotic surgery or open surgery. Which will he be having?Mick seabreezemomgrandma <seabreezemomgrandma @yahoo.com> wrote: Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks. God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your homepage. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 Hello, Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery no matter how they do it. What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition(I was 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. Good Luck to you and your husband. Rick Got a question! Dear friends,Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house?I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were?Thanks. Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2008 Report Share Posted January 4, 2008 It is one of the odd things about life how different people can have such different perceptions of issues. As Moderators we were having complaints not too long ago that this List seemed to be devoted to proton beam therapy!! To me it seems a very well balanced List but inevitably since surgery is the specialty of most urologists it becomes the default treatment for many men and is still the #1 treatment choice in the US. If members of this List are representative of the US men, then most of them will choose or will have had surgery. I agree with Aubrey regarding research and understanding options fully before making a cdecision, but each person is entitled to make the decision that suits them and their situation. All the best Terry Herbert I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in ‘96: and have learned a bit since then. My sites are at www.yananow.net and www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za Dr “Snuffy” Myers : " As a physician, I am painfully aware that most of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with inadequate data " From: ProstateCancerSupport [mailto:ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of APilgrm@... Sent: Saturday, 5 January 2008 4:12 PM To: ProstateCancerSupport Subject: Re: Got a question! Hi All, It seems that most of the people on this list favor surgery. I cannot understand why not many are looking at brachytherapy. I have seen patients have the seed implants, get up off the table 45 minutes later and go back to work. Not all of them do this, but some do. And the primary bladder valve is not involved so it is not damaged as is the case in a lot of the RPs. Each to his own- But please think and research before committing to a procedure that you will have to live with the rest of your life. Aubrey I wish you all the best Aubrey Pilgrim, DC (Ret.) Author of A Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer-Read the original book for FREE at: http://www.prostatepointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/ Read new edition for FREE at http://www.cancer.prostate-help.org/capilgr.htm Dr. E. Crawford is co-author of the revision In a message dated 1/4/2008 6:47:33 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, white.richard54 writes: Hello, Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery no matter how they do it. What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition(I was 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. Good Luck to you and your husband. Rick ----- Original Message ---- From: seabreezemomgrandma <seabreezemomgrandma> To: ProstateCancerSupport Sent: Friday, January 4, 2008 4:57:16 PM Subject: Got a question! Dear friends, Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house? I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were? Thanks. Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Hi , The replies are certainly accurate, depends on which approach, open or robotic, and also his condition preop. I had robotic, out of the hosp in 24 hours, cath out in 7 days, back at the gym in ten days. I weaned off the pads in less than 6 to 8 weeks, and have done well post surgically since. PSAs remain at <0.01. Keep us posted on hubbies progress, and feel free to come back for more info/help. Good luck, our prayers are with both of you, You are not alone!!! > Dear friends, > > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. > > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around > the house? > > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your > experiences were? > > Thanks. > > > > > > > God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. > > > Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. > > > > ______________________________________________________________________ ______________ > Be a better friend, newshound, and > know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Just spotted your reply that he is having it open, laparotomy. This will require more time to recover, probably 4 to 6 weeks gradual, again lots depending on his pre op health/strength. \ Make sure he gets his butt out of bed and does lots of walking. Also stool softeners started a couple days ahead aren't a bad idea either. Like " Colace " or it's generic, NOT PERICOLACE!! --- \\ In ProstateCancerSupport , " grrich2763 " wrote: > > Hi , The replies are certainly accurate, depends on which > approach, open or robotic, and also his condition preop. I had > robotic, out of the hosp in 24 hours, cath out in 7 days, back at the > gym in ten days. I weaned off the pads in less than 6 to 8 weeks, > and have done well post surgically since. PSAs remain at <0.01. > Keep us posted on hubbies progress, and feel free to come back for > more info/help. > Good luck, our prayers are with both of you, You are not alone!!! > > > > > Dear friends, > > > > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it > was > > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. > > > > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with > the > > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but > otherwise > > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do > around > > the house? > > > > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way > of > > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with > us > > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what > your > > experiences were? > > > > Thanks. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think > positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. > > > > > > Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! > Search. > > > > > > > > > ______________________________________________________________________ > ______________ > > Be a better friend, newshound, and > > know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. > http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Hi All, As Aubrey said, some people get up after seed implants and go to work. If you have the disposition, time and the money, check out protons. Look at the YANA site, they have a good writeup on protons. Many of the patients at Loma had early morning appointments, hoping that the machinery would be working, and then went out to play golf. This continued through the 42 to 45 session for this type of treatment. Not all treatment modalities have serious side effects nor are all patients suited for all modalities, either physically or mentally. This is just another potential option. Best of luck, Proton Patient Cancer Survivor ------------------------------------------------------------------ > > It is one of the odd things about life how different people can have such > different perceptions of issues. As Moderators we were having complaints not > too long ago that this List seemed to be devoted to proton beam therapy!! > > > > To me it seems a very well balanced List but inevitably since surgery is the > specialty of most urologists it becomes the default treatment for many men > and is still the #1 treatment choice in the US. If members of this List are > representative of the US men, then most of them will choose or will have had > surgery. > > > > I agree with Aubrey regarding research and understanding options fully > before making a cdecision, but each person is entitled to make the decision > that suits them and their situation. > > > > All the best > > > > Terry Herbert > > I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in '96: and have > learned a bit since then. > > My sites are at www.yananow.net <http://www.yananow.net/> and > <http://www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za/> > www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za > > Dr " Snuffy " Myers : " As a physician, I am painfully aware that most > of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with > inadequate data " > > > > _____ > > From: ProstateCancerSupport > [mailto:ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of APilgrm@... > Sent: Saturday, 5 January 2008 4:12 PM > To: ProstateCancerSupport > Subject: Re: Got a question! > > > > Hi All, > > > > It seems that most of the people on this list favor surgery. > > I cannot understand why not many are looking at brachytherapy. > > I have seen patients have the seed implants, get up off the table > > 45 minutes later and go back to work. Not all of them do this, > > but some do. And the primary bladder valve is not involved > > so it is not damaged as is the case in a lot of the RPs. > > > > Each to his own- But please think and research before > > committing to a procedure that you will have to live with > > the rest of your life. > > > > Aubrey > > > > I wish you all the best > > Aubrey Pilgrim, DC (Ret.) Author of > A Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer-Read the original book > for FREE at: http://www.prostate > <http://www.prostatepointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/> > pointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/ > Read new edition for FREE at http://www.cancer. > <http://www.cancer.prostate-help.org/capilgr.htm> > prostate-help.org/capilgr.htm > Dr. E. Crawford is co-author of the revision > > > > In a message dated 1/4/2008 6:47:33 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, > white.richard54@... writes: > > Hello, > > Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery > no matter how they do it. > > What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had > robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for > at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as > well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of > physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter > in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my > activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better > and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some > pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle > it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition (I was > 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do > ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there > was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great > group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. > > Good Luck to you and your husband. > > Rick > > > > > > Got a question! > > Dear friends, > > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. > > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around > the house? > > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your > experiences were? > > Thanks. > > > > > > _____ > > Start the year off right. Easy > <http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise? NCID=aolcmp00300000002489> > ways to stay in shape in the new year. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Terry - You are probably right about the medical profession. But my point was that even when given options, the majority of guys will choose what they feel will get them in and out of treatment the quickest way possible, especially when there are no guarantees that multiple treatment options such as seeds, radiation or others will give them any better outcomes. That's just my opinion on why guy do what they do. I doubt that will ever change. Mick Terry Herbert wrote: Mick, There was no question of blame anywhere – except for the medical profession who often do not act very professionally in that they do not give their patients all the information required to make an informed decision. All the best Terry Herbert I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in ‘96: and have learned a bit since then. My sites are at www.yananow.net and www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za Dr “Snuffy” Myers : "As a physician, I am painfully aware that most of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with inadequate data" From: ProstateCancerSupport [mailto:ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of Mick Northrop Sent: Sunday, 6 January 2008 5:46 AM To: ProstateCancerSupport Subject: RE: Got a question! Terry - I agree that the 'default' treatment is usually surgery. Surgery is usually what a guy is offered first and then given other treatments as options. Most guys see surgery as a "get it over with quick" option. Especially robotic surgery. Guys in general tend to not want to go to the doctor period. If they are given the choice of get it over with now or come back for multiple treatments with no guarantee to be any better off in the end, they will choose the get it over with now option most often. And who can blame? Certainly not me. Mick Terry Herbert <ghenesh_49optusnet.au> wrote: It is one of the odd things about life how different people can have such different perceptions of issues. As Moderators we were having complaints not too long ago that this List seemed to be devoted to proton beam therapy!! To me it seems a very well balanced List but inevitably since surgery is the specialty of most urologists it becomes the default treatment for many men and is still the #1 treatment choice in the US. If members of this List are representative of the US men, then most of them will choose or will have had surgery. I agree with Aubrey regarding research and understanding options fully before making a cdecision, but each person is entitled to make the decision that suits them and their situation. All the best Terry Herbert I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in ‘96: and have learned a bit since then. My sites are at www.yananow.net and www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za Dr “Snuffy” Myers : "As a physician, I am painfully aware that most of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with inadequate data" From: ProstateCancerSupport [mailto:ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of APilgrmaol Sent: Saturday, 5 January 2008 4:12 PM To: ProstateCancerSupport Subject: Re: Got a question! Hi All, It seems that most of the people on this list favor surgery. I cannot understand why not many are looking at brachytherapy. I have seen patients have the seed implants, get up off the table 45 minutes later and go back to work. Not all of them do this, but some do. And the primary bladder valve is not involved so it is not damaged as is the case in a lot of the RPs. < div class="MsoNormal">Each to his own- But please think and research before committing to a procedure that you will have to live with the rest of your life. Aubrey I wish you all the best Aubrey Pilgrim, DC (Ret.) Author of A Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer-Read the original book for FREE at: http://www.prostatepointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/ Read new edition for FREE at http://www.cancer.prostate-help.org/capilgr.htm Dr. E. Crawford is co-author of the revision In a message dated 1/4/2008 6:47:33 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, white.richard54 writes: Hello, Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery no matter how they do it. What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition(I was 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. Good Luck to you and your husband. Rick Got a question! Dear friends, Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around the house? I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your experiences were? Thanks. Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year. God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 You know, I think most men don't give this a lot of thought. They do what their doctor suggests, and leave it at that. They just want to get it over with. I suspect the number of men who really care to do a lot of research into their options is very small - just look at how many participate in this forum, numbered in the hundreds, compared to the hundreds of thousands that have been diagnosed with prostate cancer in the last few years. > > Terry - You are probably right about the medical profession. But my point was that even when given options, the majority of guys will choose what they feel will get them in and out of treatment the quickest way possible, especially when there are no guarantees that multiple treatment options such as seeds, radiation or others will give them any better outcomes. That's just my opinion on why guy do what they do. I doubt that will ever change. > > > Mick > > Terry Herbert wrote:> > > > > Mick, > > There was no question of blame anywhere – except for the medical profession who often do not act very professionally in that they do not give their patients all the information required to make an informed decision. > > > All the best > > Terry Herbert > I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in '96: and have learned a bit since then. > My sites are at www.yananow.net and www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za > Dr "Snuffy" Myers : " As a physician, I am painfully aware that most of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with inadequate data " > > > ________________________________ > From: ProstateCancerSupport [mailto: ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of Mick Northrop> Sent: Sunday, 6 January 2008 5:46 AM> To: ProstateCancerSupport > Subject: RE: Got a question! > > > > > Terry - I agree that the 'default' treatment is usually surgery. Surgery is > usually what a guy is offered first and then given other treatments as options. Most guys see surgery as a " get it over with quick " option. Especially robotic surgery. Guys in general tend to not want to go to the doctor period. If they are given the choice of get it over with now or come back for multiple treatments with no guarantee to be any better off in the end, they will choose the get it over with now option most often. And who can blame? Certainly not me. > > Mick > > > Terry Herbert wrote: > > > > > It is one of the odd things about life how different people can have such different perceptions of issues. As Moderators we were having complaints not too long ago that this List seemed to be devoted to proton beam therapy!! > > > > To me it seems a very well balanced List but inevitably since surgery is the specialty of most urologists it becomes the default treatment for many men and is still the #1 treatment choice in the US. If members of this List are representative of the US men, then most of them will choose or will have had surgery. > > > > I agree with Aubrey regarding research and understanding options fully before making a cdecision, but each person is entitled to make the decision that suits them and their situation. > > > > > All the best > > > > Terry Herbert > > I have no medical qualifications but I was diagnosed in '96: and have learned a bit since then. > > My sites are at www.yananow.net and www.prostatecancerwatchfulwaiting.co.za > > Dr "Snuffy" Myers : " As a physician, I am painfully aware that most of the decisions we make with regard to prostate cancer are made with inadequate data " > > > > ________________________________ > > From: ProstateCancerSupport [mailto: ProstateCancerSupport ] On Behalf Of APilgrm@...> Sent: Saturday, 5 January 2008 4:12 PM> To: ProstateCancerSupport > Subject: Re: Got a question! > > > > > > > > Hi All, > > > > > > It seems that most of the people on this list favor surgery. > > > I cannot understand why not many are looking at brachytherapy. > > > I have seen patients have the seed implants, get up off the table > > > 45 minutes later and go back to work. Not all of them do this, > > > but some do. And the primary bladder valve is not involved > > > so it is not damaged as is the case in a lot of the RPs. > > > > > < div class= " MsoNormal " >Each to his own- But please think and research before > > > committing to a procedure that you will have to live with > > > the rest of your life. > > > > > > Aubrey > > > > > > I wish you all the best> > Aubrey Pilgrim, DC (Ret.) Author of> A Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer-Read the original book > for FREE at: http://www.prostatepointers.org/prostate/lay/apilgrim/> Read new edition for FREE at http://www.cancer.prostate-help.org/capilgr.htm> Dr. E. Crawford is co-author of the revision > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hello, > > > Everyone handles surgery different. Don't forget that this is major surgery no matter how they do it. > > > What type of RP is he having? I can not talk about open RP because I had robotic but I'm pretty sure he will be side lined from most activities for at least six weeks. It depends also on what kind of shape he is in as well(I don't want to say age because that is not always an indication of physical condition). I had mine out on May 16, 2007 and I had my catheter in for nine days. That nine days was for me the most difficult time and my activities were very limited. Once the catheter came out I felt much better and was able to drive and do alot more. I had some pain and I did take some pain pills that i came home with but for the most part I was able to handle it without taking them often. I am in pretty good physical condition(I was 52)and I was able to go back to work in two weeks. I was not allowed to do ANY lifting for six weeks but I was able to do most things as long as there was no discomfort. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, this is a great group and I wish I had found it when I was in your shoes last May. > > > Good Luck to you and your husband. > > > Rick > > > > > > > > Got a question! > > > Dear friends,> > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.> > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around > the house?> > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your > experiences were?> > Thanks. > > > > > > > ________________________________ > > Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year. > > > > > > God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. > > ________________________________ > Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. > > > > > > God rewards those that keep on keeping on. Stay positive. Think positive. Pray positive. And talk positive. > > ________________________________Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. > > -- Bobinnv Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Dear , My husband had his surgery on the 31st of Oct and the major thing on my mind was how I could best be of help afterwards and trying to anticipate what to expect. If all goes well your husband will be ambulatory, but will have problems getting in and out of bed because his stomach muscles will need to recover their strength. He may want to spend more time in bed than out of it because he will tire easily. Heavy lifting, long walks outside are out, especially when his catheter is in. While he is hooked up to the catheter his bag will need to be emptied and the tube kept clean. Not difficult. The nurse should show you how to do it before you leave the hospital. Before he went into the hospital we bought a tray table for the bed as eating at the table was tiring. Also his seat hurt so we bought a foam rubber donut to sit on from a pharmacy that sold medical supplies. We also bought a foam rubber back rest so he could sit up in bed comfortably. One nasty suprise we had when he got home was that his bladder went into spasm. This can be very painful and cause urine to leak out around the side of the catheter. We called the doctor on call [it was the weeked of course] and were prescribed anti spasm medication. It helped somewhat but the spasms continued, although less intense, until the catheter was removed. It turns out that this is common and nothing to get excited about, but no one told us. [We tried both oxybutynin and opium/belladonna suppositories -- the suppositories were better, but expensive]. It does get better. It is now 9 weeks since surgery and he is just starting to get back to normal. So my answer as regards to the help that your husband gives you around the house: Don't expect it and try your best to find alternatives for a while. I don't mean to alarm you. It is just better to be prepared than surprised. From (MDH) -- I was surprised by how long it took me to get back some physical energy. I was pretty much lying in bed until my catheter was removed at three weeks. Even after that, I felt punky for a few weeks. I went to a support-group meeting four weeks post-surgery, and it was all I could do to stay upright. Now, nine weeks after surgery, I can run around like I used to -- almost. > > Dear friends, > > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed. > > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around > the house? > > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your > experiences were? > > Thanks. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2008 Report Share Posted January 5, 2008 Dear , Thank you, thank you. Your information pretty much confirmed what I suspected. Our son will be here for a week, so that will help, and our daughter lives nearby. I'm sure we'll be ok. We shall just have a couple of quiet months. And that will be just fine. May I ask what type of pad/adult diaper you purchased for your husband? I kind of figured I'd wait until we were at the hospital - I guess I should have asked his doc, but didn't think of it. We've been told about 2 months for recovery and a couple - perhaps 3 weeks for the cath. Thank you again for your insight. Re: Got a question! Dear ,My husband had his surgery on the 31st of Oct and the major thing onmy mind was how I could best be of help afterwards and trying toanticipate what to expect.If all goes well your husband will be ambulatory, but will haveproblems getting in and out of bed because his stomach muscles willneed to recover their strength. He may want to spend more time in bedthan out of it because he will tire easily. Heavy lifting, long walksoutside are out, especially when his catheter is in.While he is hooked up to the catheter his bag will need to be emptiedand the tube kept clean. Not difficult. The nurse should show you howto do it before you leave the hospital.Before he went into the hospital we bought a tray table for the bed aseating at the table was tiring. Also his seat hurt so we bought a foamrubber donut to sit on from a pharmacy that sold medical supplies. Wealso bought a foam rubber back rest so he could sit up in bedcomfortably. One nasty suprise we had when he got home was that his bladder wentinto spasm. This can be very painful and cause urine to leak outaround the side of the catheter. We called the doctor on call [it wasthe weeked of course] and were prescribed anti spasm medication. Ithelped somewhat but the spasms continued, although less intense, untilthe catheter was removed. It turns out that this is common and nothingto get excited about, but no one told us. [We tried both oxybutyninand opium/belladonna suppositories -- the suppositories were better,but expensive].It does get better. It is now 9 weeks since surgery and he is juststarting to get back to normal.So my answer as regards to the help that your husband gives you aroundthe house:Don't expect it and try your best to find alternatives for a while.I don't mean to alarm you. It is just better to be prepared thansurprised.From (MDH) --I was surprised by how long it took me to get back some physicalenergy. I was pretty much lying in bed until my catheter was removedat three weeks. Even after that, I felt punky for a few weeks. Iwent to a support-group meeting four weeks post-surgery, and it wasall I could do to stay upright. Now, nine weeks after surgery, I canrun around like I used to -- almost. >> Dear friends,> > Have been lurking for a bit, and now have a question. My husband is > going to have his prostate removed next week. As far as we know it was > caught very early, and his choice is to have it removed.> > So, my question is for those of you who have made a similar choice, > how did you feel once you got home? I know we will be dealing with the > catheter for several weeks, and that lifting is a nono, but otherwise > what were your experiences as far as what you were able to do around > the house?> > I have physical limitations that keep me from doing much in the way of > housekeeping and so depend on MDH for a lot. Our son will be with us > for a week and our daughter is nearby, but I am just curious what your > experiences were?> > Thanks.> Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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