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Published on: May 9, 2018
Patient-reported complications after cryoablation therapy for prostate cancer
R A Badalament1, D K Bahn, H Kim
1Departments of Surgery (Division of Urology) and Radiology, Crittenton Hospital, Rochester Hill, Michigan, USA.
Summary
Patient-reported complications after prostate cancer cryoablation therapy were evaluated. Results show favorable outcomes compared to other treatments, with high patient satisfaction and a willingness to repeat the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
Background:
- Prostate cancer treatment options include radical prostatectomy, external beam irradiation, and cryoablation.
- Patient-reported outcomes are crucial for evaluating treatment efficacy and side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define patient-reported complications following cryoablation therapy for prostate cancer.
- To compare these complications with those reported for radical prostatectomy and external beam irradiation.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to patients who underwent cryoablation.
- 223 patients were included in the final analysis after exclusions.
- Complications such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and pain were assessed.
Main Results:
- Urinary incontinence affected 4.3% of patients with good preoperative control.
- Erectile dysfunction occurred in 85% of previously potent men.
- Minor complications like scrotal swelling and pelvic pain were common but typically resolved within 3 months.
Conclusions:
- Prostate cancer cryoablation demonstrates favorable patient-reported complication rates compared to radical prostatectomy and external beam irradiation.
- High patient satisfaction suggests cryoablation is a viable treatment option.
- Further research may focus on long-term outcomes and quality of life.
