Prostatectomy improves cancer survival
March 23rd, 2009 Posted in prostatectomyA recent research, known as the Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Group Study 4, found radical prostatectomy — prostate removal — improved prostate cancer survival, when compared with watchful waiting.
Lars Holmberg of Uppsala, Sweden, said the study was the first randomized trial to show that radical prostatectomy reduces the risk of prostate cancer mortality and the risk of developing metastases.
According to study conclusion, radical prostatectomy reduces prostate cancer mortality and risk of metastases with little or no further increase in benefit 10 or more years after surgery.
Regarding side effects of prostatectomy, Holmberg said in a statement that the overall rating of quality of life is similar in patients with prostatectomy and patients with other treatments.
The findings were presented at the 24th annual European Association of Urology Congress in Stockholm, Sweden.