What does life look like after prostate cancer treatment? In the video above, urologist Dr. Brian Miles shares promising new therapies that can help ease the potential side effects of prostate cancer treatment.
"Survivorship explores life beyond treatment," Dr. Miles says. "What can we do to get you back to who you were before you were treated?"
Shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction
After prostate surgery or radiation, men may have trouble achieving or maintaining an erection. If hormone therapy for low testosterone isn't the answer, a specialist may suggest shocking the penis to restore blood flow.
"It sounds strange — why would we injure something that's already broken?" says Dr. Miles. "When we induce injury with these low intensity shockwaves, the body sends in stem cells. These cells build new blood vessels and nerves that heal the erectile tissue inside the penis."
Dr. Miles is studying the effects of shockwave therapy after radical prostatectomy. He believes the success rate could lead to more opportunities for more patients.
Electrical stimulation for urinary incontinence
While leaking a bit of urine after a prostate procedure isn't common, even a small amount can impact quality of life. Dr. Miles has designed a clinical trial to study the use of a TENS unit, or transcutaneous nerve stimulator, to improve urinary control.
"I'm very optimistic this will bring back normal life with minimal intervention," he says. "I'd rather avoid even minor surgery if we can use a very simple and painless device to get that control back."
