There is no one size fits all when it comes to prostate cancer
21 Sep 2021
There is no 'one size fits all' approach to treating prostate cancer, and that's why at Melbourne Urology Centre, we treat every patient as an individual. Our specialist urologists, Dr Shekib Shahbaz and Dr Tony de Sousa take the time to ensure that you are provided with the highest standard of care, with the best possible outcomes for your individual circumstances.
"The investigations started following a routine check-up with my GP", says Theo, a patient of Melbourne Urology Centre. Theo's GP had done some preliminary investigations, including a PSA test since there was some family history of prostate cancer in Theo's family. The results prompted a referral to Melbourne Urology Centre for further assessment.
The PSA test is a blood test that looks for raised levels of a particular protein, called the prostate specific antigen. "A high PSA doesn't always mean that there is cancer present- that's why it is important to see a specialist urologist. Our job is to perform the necessary tests to look for other indicators that suggest that there is cancer there, or whether there is some other problem with the prostate," says Dr Shahbaz.
"Not all prostate cancers are the same; some are almost part of the aging process and will never cause any problems. PSA screening is about finding the aggressive cancers early while they are still curable before they spread to other parts of the body" adds Dr de Sousa.
Theo was diagnosed with Stage 2 (confined to the prostate), Gleason Grade 7 (intermediate risk) prostate cancer, following further investigations, which included a biopsy and prostate MRI in his case.
Dr Shahbaz highlights the importance of seeking the advice of a specialist urologist for guidance and a tailored treatment plan, "quite often patients come to us having read or heard a lot of different information from varied sources- much of it is misinformation or not applicable to their personal circumstances. This is an integral part of our role as urologists: to demystify prostate cancer and to provide our patients with relevant, practical treatment advice that is tailored to the individual."
Theo's cancer was treated with a robotic radical prostatectomy- a keyhole procedure performed with the specialized equipment, which offers suitable patients a surgical option with less trauma, faster recovery time, and overall improved outcomes.
"My PSA has remained undetectable for two years now," Theo tells us. "This means that there is no sign of prostate cancer in his body, and he is living a normal life; this is the best outcome that we could have expected for Theo," concludes Dr Shahbaz. For many men, surgery provides a curative option and gives the patient peace of mind in knowing that the cancer has left their body.
"Surgery isn't the only option though. There are a number of approaches to treatment that we can take, depending on the patient's individual circumstances. We understand the need to take time to explain complex conditions- such as prostate cancer- in simple terms, so that you and your family are properly informed throughout your patient journey," says Dr de Sousa of Melbourne Urology Centre's approach to patient care.
Prostate cancer can be daunting, but with the right care team and support network, good long-term outcomes are possible for many men.
If you would like further information or you wish to arrange a consultation with a specialist urologist, please phone Melbourne Urology Centre on 1300 702 811.