The prostate is an accessory sex gland in the male. It produces secretions which form part of the seminal fluid which carries sperm. In most men the prostate starts to grow from the age of 40.

The prostate can enlarge through a normal process called benign prostatic hypertrophy and treatment is only necessary if the man develops symptoms passing urine or if he has bleeding from the prostate, retention or blockage of urine, urinary infection or formation of bladder stones.

 

Men can also develop prostate cancer although this is most common in men in later years.

The treatment will depend on the symptoms however in benign disease the treatments may include

1. Observation only – if minimal urinary symptoms
2. Medical treatment with medication
3. If medical treatment fails a surgical approach may be necessary.

There are many different surgical techniques ranging from less invasive such as Urolift to Turp (transurethral resection of the prostate), holmium laser / green light laser of the prostate, open prostatectomy. Mr Raza will discuss the most appropriate procedure for you.

Other experimental techniques include embolisation of the prostate.

Prostate cancer treatment is dependent on the age, fitness of the patient, stage and grade of disease at time of diagnosis and wishes of the patient.

Treatment can involve

1. Observation / active surveillance
2. Medical Treatment
3. Radiotherapy
4. Surgical removal of the prostate gland
5. Less invasive techniques such as cryotherapy, brachytherapy, HIFU.

Mr Raza will again discuss your case with Specialist colleagues at a Multidisciplinary meeting and with you and your family if you wish at your visit and refer you to the appropriate Specialist for treatment depending on what treatment options are appropriate for you.