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What to do after prostate irradiation

Side effects after prostate irradiation

Treatment for Prostate cancer involves the use of radiation therapy, despite a number of negative consequences associated with radiation. Ionizing radiation, acting on the affected area, destroys malignant tumor cells by destroying their DNA. Radiation for prostate cancer is a method of treating the tumor and preventing it from spreading to healthy tissue. Treatment of prostate cancer with radiotherapy can be done remotely or internally.

External radiation therapy

Remote radiotherapy involves exposure of the prostate tissue of a man with ionized radiation outside the patient's body. There are several methods for conducting such therapy:

Conventional radiation therapy for prostate cancer is the most common. The main material for preparing for therapy is the data of X-ray studies, the results of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the organ. Radiation affects the tumor at a given angle. 3D-comformal radiation therapy of prostate cancer is distinguished by the maximum accuracy of the impact on the focus of malignant tumors, since it is carried out by an X-ray radiation simulator with a computer tomography attachment, which makes it possible to irradiate a complex configuration of hard-to-reach body parts. The main advantages of this method are: good tolerance of therapy by the patient, high accuracy of exposure due to MRI data, low effect on surrounding tissues, exposure to the tumor with radiation at the right dose, use of high-precision equipment for the procedure. Radiation intensively modulated prostate therapy (IMRT) - allows you to minimize the effect of radiation on other organs thanks to the multi-leaf collimator. Petals in the amount of 20-80 pcs. controlled by a computer, can be set in a shape corresponding to the shape of the tumor. Planning for radiological exposure using IMRT is very careful, since healthy tissues and organs that fall into the radiation zone must be protected from exposure as much as possible. It is assumed that less than 60% of the planned radiation dose will be exposed to up to 5% of the tissues that fall into the affected area. Stereotactic radiation therapy (SBRT) - involves the effect of ionized radiation on the focus of a malignant tumor. The course of treatment is usually less than a week. Image Corrected Radiation Therapy (IGRT) - allows you to get an image of the tumor directly during radiation therapy or before the session. At the same time, the radiation dose received by healthy tissues is minimized. One type of IGRT is Cyber-Knife radiotherapy. The procedure is carried out using a cyber-arm with an integrated radiation planning computer system based on MRI data. The cyber-arm allows you to irradiate areas of complex shape. External methods of influencing a cancerous tumor often lead to burns at the sites of penetration, fragility of blood vessels and hemorrhages.

Internal Radiation Therapy

It is possible to use ionized radiation on a prostate tumor using brachytherapy. It assumes a contact effect on the cells of education by a source of irradiation. The main advantage of the method is the impact directly on the tumor focus. The process is controlled by transrectal ultrasound. Radioactive grains in the amount of 60-90 pcs. inserted with a needle through the perineum. Depending on the time of exposure to the introduced elements in the body of a man, brachytherapy can be of two types:

Permanent - involves the introduction of 40-100 radioactive grains of iodine-135 or palladium-103, which after a while become harmless. Thanks to this technique, the effect of high doses of radiation on malignant cells is maximum, and nearby tissues suffer minimally.

If a capsule with a radioactive substance accidentally exits through the urethra, it is necessary to take it with tweezers, move it to any container and take it to the hospital for subsequent disposal. Temporary - brachytherapy, in which the effect of the active substance (iridium-192) occurs by inserting a hollow needle into the prostate area, followed by its filling with radioactive iridium. After the end of the procedure, the needles are removed. Thanks to brachytherapy, 80% of patients live for more than 10 years. Similar survival statistics are observed during radical prostatectomy - a procedure that has much more negative consequences in the form of urinary incontinence or impotence.

The earlier you start treating prostate cancer with radiological radiation, the fewer complications it will bring and the higher the patient's survival. According to statistical studies of a group of subjects of 665 men, the survival rate for 12 years after brachytherapy and combined radiotherapy was 99.7%.The best prognosis is in people with low PSA who have a slightly enlarged prostate gland, a tumor score on the Gleason scale of more than 7 (the indicator ranges from 1 to 10; the lower it is, the worse the prognosis).

Despite the proven effectiveness of radiation therapy, its implementation has a number of negative consequences for the patient.

Side effects of radiotherapy

Hormone therapy and radiation therapy for prostate cancer are optimally combined methods of treating prostate cancer. The main effects of radiation therapy for prostate cancer are associated with damage to healthy cells. Complications may appear during the first 3 months after the procedure, and may occur after a long period of time - from 3 months to 2 years. Early manifestations of complications include:

Intestinal disorders: diarrhea, bloating, constipation; dysuric disorders of varying severity; urinary retention; inflammation of the bladder (cystitis); rectitis - inflammation of the rectal mucosa, its swelling, redness, in severe cases - rejection of epithelial tissue. In a later period they make themselves felt:

• urethritis - inflammation of the urethra;
• superficial necrosis of the urethra;
• kidney hydronephrosis;
• impotence.

The most common are disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary and reproductive systems.

Intestinal damage and dysfunction

Damages in the area of the rectum are located at a distance of about 10 cm from the anus and are ulcers, erosion of the mucous tissue. A biopsy of such tissues is highly undesirable, since such a procedure is fraught with the occurrence of fistulas. Ignoring rectitis can cause the death of the patient.

Often, after radiation therapy for prostate cancer, diarrhea, uncontrolled fecal discharge, and blood from the rectum when going to the toilet occur. After the body gets used to the new size of the prostate, bowel disorders usually stop.

Disorders of the genitourinary system

During irradiation of the prostate, the lower wall (bottom) of the bladder is most susceptible to the negative effects of radiation. In 25% of men, there was a need to use absorbent pads due to urine leakage. After about a year, the disturbances go away on their own. If this does not happen, drug therapy is used. Compared with the remote method, the probability of damage to the urinary system with brachytherapy is 3 times higher.

This process is almost irreversible, so the earlier the treatment of radiation fibrosis is started, the less negative consequences it will entail. According to statistical data, the average time of treatment with various consequences of radiation therapy was from 1 to 2 years after the procedure. In 97% of cases, there were violations of potency, which were of a long-term nature.

Impotence after radiotherapy is treated with Viagra. A positive result was noted in 50-60% of cases of drug use. If this method of treatment fails, injections of drugs into the genital organ immediately before sex can be used

The maximum positive result of potency restoration (about 95%) is achieved when using penile implants. Their installation is preferable if no other methods have helped. The implant is surgically inserted into the penis, so that a man can have sex with a partner.

Reducing the negative effects of radiotherapy

Despite a number of possible complications, radiation therapy is considered as an alternative treatment for prostate cancer, since it affects the focus of malignancy in the following ways:

Kills malignant cells, prevents their reproduction; promotes thrombosis of blood vessels that supply malignant cells with nutrients; has a lower complication rate compared to radical prostatectomy. To minimize the negative impact of radiotherapy, you can use the recommendations of Professor Goldobenko G.В

Adhere to the principles of a healthy diet, excluding salty foods and alcoholic beverages from the diet; monitor the hygiene of the perineum; check for urinary infections before treatment; for cystitis or pyelonephritis, take a course of antibiotic therapy, choosing drugs based on urine culture; if it is difficult to empty the bladder, start prostate cancer therapy with the use of hormone therapy, and irradiation should be carried out starting with minimal doses of radiation (from 0.5 Gy at the first session to 2 Gy by the 4th session); after the procedure of transurethral resection of the bladder (TUR) to withstand a period of at least 1 month; refuse any mechanical impact on the urethra before the procedure; for men in serious condition, take a break between the stages of radiotherapy in 2-3 weeks; at the first manifestations of radiation rectitis, use rectal suppositories containing belladonna, methyluracil, anesthesin, do microclysters with medicated oils. For the first 2 months after the procedure, you should refrain from holding small children on your knees and exclude the presence of pregnant women nearby. Also, to avoid negative consequences after therapy, objects weighing more than 4 kg should not be lifted. It is not recommended to stay in a sitting position for more than 2 hours in a row. You need to make sure that the bladder or intestines are not full.

If you follow the suggested recommendations, the treatment of prostate cancer with the help of ionized radiation will pass with minimal complications.

Prostate after irradiation

Consequences of radiotherapy for prostate cancer: highlights

Radiation therapy is one of the most common and effective methods for the treatment of prostate cancer, which allows you to stop the development of neoplasms and destroy cancer cells using directed radiation to the tumor.

Radiotherapy consists of remote beam therapy (external application of radiation) and brachytherapy (ionizing effect on the tumor from the inside) - the effectiveness and expediency of the chosen method depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body, the possibility of complications in this disease, etc.

Chemotherapy is given both before surgery and after surgery (for example, after radical prostatectomy) to stop cancer cells from multiplying in healthy organs and tissues.

The consequences of radiation therapy for prostate cancer are varied: in some cases, the effect of therapy is insignificant and all side effects disappear almost immediately after stopping therapy, in others, the negative effect is more pronounced and special means are required to stop such symptoms, and some consequences are irreversible.

The main consequences of radiation therapy for prostate cancer include:

• Increased fatigue.
• Irritation of the skin in places where there was exposure to radiotherapy.
• Problems with urination: This can include burning and tingling sensations, as well as poor urine flow and general difficulty urinating (frequent or infrequent urge to urinate).
• Rectal irritation and bleeding, development of hemorrhoids.
• Fever.
• Risk of impotence within two years of therapy.
• Loose stools, diarrhea and problems with bowel function.

When is radiotherapy required for prostate cancer after surgery

Radical prostatectomy is a surgical treatment for prostate cancer. The operation is that the entire prostate, seminal vesicles and adjacent tissues are removed. Patients who have undergone such surgery are warned about the continuing risk of recurrence of prostate cancer, therefore, it is recommended to undergo additional radiation therapy after radical prostatectomy.

Radiotherapy for prostate cancer after surgery is most appropriate for patients at high risk of recurrence and zero PSA, as well as for those who are suspected of exclusively local recurrence. In cases where the tumor has gone beyond the prostate or has metastasized to the organs and tissues of the body, radiation therapy is ineffective.

Currently, in modern medicine, there are several main types of radiation therapy, and each individual type of therapy is effective in a certain development of prostate cancer. Consider these types in more detail:

• Conformal radiation therapy for prostate cancer is planned when it is necessary to uniformly and completely irradiate a tumor of complex shape. In conformal radiation therapy, a three-dimensional model of the tumor is created and the position of organs and tissues near the tumor is taken into account. This method makes it possible to irradiate complex forms of tumors without affecting healthy tissues and organs.
• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy is the delivery of a beam to the tumor, which is divided into several smaller beams, with the power of each beam set by a special program. This allows you to direct a small amount of radiation to healthy organs and tissues so that the main dose falls on the tumor.
• Proton beam therapy, according to many medical experts, is currently one of the most advanced treatments for prostate cancer. Treatment is carried out with the help of protons that irradiate the tumor, and the surrounding tissues receive less harm - protons are less dangerous for healthy organs. However, proton beam therapy is only used to treat certain types of cancer.
• Neutron radiation therapy is used in cases where the tumor does not respond to all other methods of radiation. Neutrons have a more pronounced effect on cells.

The outcome of radiotherapy for prostate cancer: PSA control in prostate cancer after radiotherapy, side effects and rehabilitation

Radiotherapy for prostate cancer prevents a possible recurrence of an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Radiation therapy is a kind of x-ray: the effects of radiation cannot be felt, seen or smelled.

During the first two weeks after radiation therapy, no consequences yet occur. Since only certain areas and organs of the patient's body are exposed to radiation therapy, only these organs will feel the effect of the therapy.

Irradiation for prostate cancer has some benefits at different stages of the disease:

• In the early stage of cancer, radiation for prostate cancer is used instead of radical prostatectomy to preserve healthy organs and tissues of the body as much as possible.
• After surgery, radiation for prostate cancer will destroy cancer cells that have survived in the body.
• In advanced cancers, radiation therapy can help reduce pain.

After radiation therapy has been carried out, it is necessary to see a doctor regularly to monitor the course of the disease. Approximately three months after radiation therapy, a PSA test is performed. PSA for prostate cancer after radiation therapy is checked every three to four months, they also donate blood for tests.

PSA is a key indicator in monitoring the development of prostate cancer. Immediately after treatment with radiation therapy, PSA will not drop to low levels, this will take some time. PSA levels during the first three years after therapy will fluctuate - this is absolutely normal.

However, after a radical prostatectomy, the result of the treatment is immediately noticeable: the PSA level approaches zero, and this indicates the success of the procedure.

Irradiation for prostate cancer has advantages and disadvantages

• Tumor development slows down: some of the cancer cells die, the rest stop dividing.
• There is a partial overgrowth of the vessels that feed the cancer cells.
• For certain forms of prostate cancer, it is the most gentle and effective treatment.

• Hypersensitivity of the circulatory system and intestinal epithelium to received radiation.
• Many different side effects that can last for quite a long time: such side effects include problems with urination, poor bowel function, impotence, etc.
• There is no absolute guarantee that prostate cancer will not recur.

To minimize the adverse effects and complications of radiation therapy for prostate cancer, the following procedures should be performed:

• After each irradiation session, rest for at least three hours.
• Follow the right diet: meals should be prescribed 4-5 times a day, eat small portions, refuse junk food. Eat as many vegetables and fruits as possible, and drink plenty of fluids.
• Regular breathing exercises will bring additional benefits.
• The area where the irradiation is directed should be lubricated with protective sun creams to reduce the level of radiation received by healthy tissues.
• To brush your teeth, you should use soft bristles, the toothpaste should be gel and foaming.
• In any case, avoiding alcohol and smoking is mandatory.

Prostate cancer is a malignant transformation of the glandular cells of an organ. In the course of the pathological process, cell transformation occurs, their atypia increases. Altered tissues grow into surrounding organs and metastasize, forming foci of secondary lesions. This is an extremely aggressive and dangerous disease, which is in the first positions in terms of frequency of occurrence. One of the methods of treatment is the so-called radiation therapy. What is it and when is it applied?

Indications for use

Unlike many other organs, the prostate has a non-homogeneous structure. Therefore, it is simply impossible to unambiguously determine the degree of malignant transformation and cancerous invasion. Even at an early, first stage of the course of prostate cancer, a total prostatectomy is indicated - the removal of an organ. However, the doctor may choose to wait and see. In most cases, radiation therapy is prescribed for the following indications:

• Preoperative preparation at stages 2-4 of the course of the disease. At these stages, the size of the cancerous tumor is significant, it grows rapidly and is characterized by cellular instability. Radiation therapy in combination with chemotherapy is indicated to stabilize the size of the tumor and reduce its vascularization.
• Inoperable tumor. In this case, there are simply no alternatives to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. They become the main methods.
• The presence of a well-demarcated prostate tumor without invasion and with a clear localization. The doctor seeks an opportunity to preserve the patient's health as much as possible: after all, prostatectomy is a difficult and traumatic operation that destroys sexual health and puts an end to infertility. In such a situation, it is definitely worth trying radiation therapy. It is quite possible that radiosurgery will put an end to the issue of the course of the disease.
• Postoperative period. Treatment is necessary to destroy the remaining cells of the cancerous tumor if resection is performed, and not removal of the prostate.

See also: Stages of prostate cancer: features of the development of pathology and prognosis

Mechanism of action on tissues

Radiotherapy is based on the detrimental effect of radiation on the tissues and cells of the body. The essence of the treatment is to irradiate the affected area with high-intensity radiation waves, due to which cancer cells die and the tumor begins to disintegrate. Moreover, the more intense the nutrition of the tumor and the better its vascularization, the more lethal the radiation for such a neoplasm.

Basic radiotherapy techniques and regimens

Remote exposure method

It consists in placing the patient under a special apparatus, reminiscent of an X-ray. The patient lies down on a special table, under the emitter. This type of device produces high-intensity radiation. However, it does not act pointwise, but passes through soft tissues, including fatty deposits (at the same time, the higher the body weight of a person, the less effective the therapy and the more likely the development of side effects). There are two main methods of remote exposure.

In the first case, the patient is placed under the emitter and the tumor is treated. This is the so-called. stationary method. Both the device itself and the patient are immobile in this case. Another method is to place the patient on a table. In this case, the sensor is mobile and irradiates the prostate tumor in various projections radially (in a circle).

Both methods are very complex and have a lot of side effects. They are prescribed before the operation and immediately after to destroy pathogenic cells. The duration of the course varies from 2 to 7 weeks on average (8-45 sessions). The choice of the optimal dose of radiation plays an important role.

Contact method

Considered one of the most modern and secure. These are minimally invasive techniques that directly affect a malignant neoplasm. There are two ways to carry out contact treatment.

In the first case, the drug in the form of small balls is injected into the rectum or through the urethral canal into the bladder and left in a similar position. This is the so-called. intracavitary method.

Another method involves the introduction of needle-shaped radio sources into the thickness of the tumor. This is interstitial therapy.

Only 1-3 sessions are enough for therapy. The contact method is indicated instead of surgery, as a first or palliative treatment for cancer.

Proton technique

It is considered the most modern, not counting radiosurgery. It consists in placing the patient under a special sensor. It has much in common with the remote method. However, the irradiation accuracy of a proton emitter is several times higher. The effect is achieved due to the precise positioning of the patient and careful visual control of the exposure to the rays. According to research, this is one of the most effective treatments. The number of relapses does not exceed 1 case per 5000 patients.

It is prescribed instead of surgery, before surgery or immediately after, as a technique to prevent recurrence during partial resection. The number of sessions varies from 3 to 30, the duration of the course is 1-6 weeks.

Intratissue method

It consists in the introduction of a radioisotope substance into the cavity of the prostate gland. The effect is achieved in just 1-5 sessions.

It is prescribed to reduce the size of the tumor before surgery.

Consequences of treatment

All methods, with the exception of proton therapy, have a lot of side effects. Among the most common:

Occurrence of problems with urination. Stool instability: alternating constipation and diarrhea. Temporary but significant impotence. Possibility of relapse. In order to eliminate adverse effects or prevent them, it is recommended to follow a number of simple rules:

• Never drink alcohol.
• Smoking is excluded.
• After each session of radiation therapy, it is recommended to observe a rest regimen, lie down for at least two to three hours.
• Teeth should only be brushed with a soft-bristled brush. Perhaps a generalized manifestation of capillary fragility.
• We need to eat as many plant foods as possible. At the same time, food should be fractional (up to 6-7 times a day).
• It is necessary to exclude the effect of solar radiation on the dermal cover.
• It is recommended to maintain optimal physical activity, practice breathing exercises.

Radiotherapy is a dangerous technique and not always effective enough. Most often, it acts as an auxiliary, but not the main way to treat prostate cancer. Nevertheless, radiation treatment has proven its effectiveness, therefore it is being improved and applied everywhere. However, the oncologist must weigh all the pros and cons, and only after that decide the appropriateness of prescribing such therapy. Otherwise, there will be no efficiency.

Life expectancy for grade 3 prostate cancer

As a rule, men, even feeling discomfort and pain, postpone a visit to the doctor on such a delicate topic and come when the cancerous tumor has already grown significantly and has gone beyond the prostate. This stage is characterized by:

• metastases on nearby organs - intestines, urinary or seminal bladders;
• significant impairment of potency;
• presence of blood in urine and semen;
• pain in the perineum and lower back.

Life expectancy for grade 3 prostate cancer

According to various sources, survival within 5 years after the diagnosis of prostate cancer of the 3rd degree is observed in 50-80% of patients. Deaths are most often associated not with the cancer itself, but with concomitant diseases. The presence of a malignant tumor in the body, and at stage 3 also the appearance of cancerous metastases in other organs, sharply impairs the adaptive capabilities of the body.

Therefore, it is so important to radically change your lifestyle, get rid of bad habits, and actively engage in physical exercises. All this, together with the treatment provided, can significantly increase not only life expectancy with prostate cancer of the 3rd degree, but also its quality.

It is necessary to undergo a course of treatment, if necessary, to operate on the tumor. Otherwise, life expectancy will be sharply reduced to 3 years, the development of metastases will reach the stage when treatment will no longer help.

Therefore - no thoughts from the category "I'd rather die a peasant!". Treated, treated and treated again!

Specialists note that a high percentage of mortality is in those patients who are initially pessimistic, do not believe that they can defeat the disease. Therefore, you need to get as many positive emotions as possible, know that everything will work out, and believe in yourself.

Treatment of prostate cancer grade 3

There are several treatment options:

• radical prostatectomy (surgery to remove the prostate);
• radiotherapy;
• hormonal treatment;
• active surveillance.

Since any oncological diseases are characterized by the possibility of relapses, combined treatment is used to exclude them - several types of treatment are used. This increases the life expectancy of the patient and improves its quality.

Prostate surgery

The most common treatment for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is a slowly developing disease, however, the operation should not be postponed for a long time. If there are no contraindications to surgical removal of a cancerous tumor, it is better to decide on removal as soon as possible - 3-4 weeks. With a successful operation, the life expectancy of 80% of patients is 5 years.

During surgery, the prostate is completely removed. Sometimes this touches the nerve endings responsible for erection. But it is also possible to carry out the operation without cutting the nerve fibers, thereby preserving male strength. It is best to discuss this issue with the attending physician (or, if possible, with the surgeon himself) in advance before the operation, so that you can continue to enjoy sex after the operation. The possibility of maintaining erectile function of a man is primarily affected by age and general condition of the body before surgery.Experts note that in 90% of men who underwent prostatectomy, the ability to have an erection returns within 12-24 months.

To return to your former power, you need to try to have sex as often as possible.

Contraindications for prostate removal:

• prostate specific antigen (PSA) level above 20;
• life expectancy less than 10 years;
• presence of decompensated heart or blood diseases;
• over 85 years of age.

Sometimes surgery is not performed due to a large number of metastases in other organs - even if the prostate gland is removed, cancer recurrence cannot be avoided in this case.

If for some reason surgery is not possible, the oncologist can prescribe other types of treatment.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is selected individually for each patient. Age, general health, and stage of cancer affect both the dose of radiation and the type of radiation (X-ray, radioactive, or ionizing). The duration of radiation therapy is also determined individually, but usually 5 sessions are performed every week for 2 to 3 months.

In radiation therapy, it is especially important to know the exact localization of the tumor, therefore, before performing it, the doctor will definitely prescribe studies that allow you to accurately determine the location of the tumor.

Hormonal treatment

Hormonal treatment is rarely the only treatment for prostate cancer. As a rule, it goes with additional treatment. The main goal of hormone therapy is to reduce the amount of male hormones in the body that stimulate the growth of a cancerous tumor. This method is most often combined with surgical removal of the prostate gland (in case of recurrence of the disease) or radiation therapy.

Hormonotherapy is also indicated for those patients who, for any reason, refuse surgery or age restrictions do not allow the use of aggressive methods of treatment.

One of the options for reducing the amount of male hormones is surgery to remove the testicles - orchitectomy. Unfortunately, often men refuse no more for emotional reasons than for real contraindications. Although those who nevertheless decided on such a radical method note that already a month after the operation it is impossible to visually determine whether there are testicles in the scrotum.

Properly performed hormone therapy can reduce the size of the prostate and greatly facilitate surgery or radiation therapy.

Observation

This method of treatment is used when the age or general condition of the patient does not allow the use of other methods. In this case, the patient is prescribed fairly frequent examinations and examinations, which allow drawing conclusions about the course of the disease and adjusting the treatment in time.

Advice for men with prostate cancer

Return to "big sex" as soon as possible. The longer sexual pleasures are postponed after the operation, the more difficult it is to overcome the psychological barrier in the future.

Do not move away from your companion (wife, girlfriend, lover). It is the support of a beloved woman that will help you quickly get in shape and not become limp in difficult times.

If after the operation it is immediately scary to have sex, especially since it is not known how the body will behave - engage in masturbation. This will allow you to better study your reactions and give you confidence that everything will work out at the right time. Drugs such as Viagra also help well, but their use must be agreed with the doctor.

A healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition and regular sex - that's what you need to get rid of the disease forever!

How to prepare for radiotherapy to the prostate

Radiation therapy for prostate cancer: consequences and effectiveness

The disease does not spare anyone, cancer is one of the most severe. If you do not see a doctor in time, then big problems can arise. Then only medicines are no longer enough. We will have to resort to cardinal actions, which include radiation therapy. With prostate cancer, its consequences are unpredictable. We will talk about this now, but first-

What is radiotherapy

This is an effective and expedient treatment for oncological pathologies, which include prostate cancer. It is based on ionizing radiation, acts purposefully, destroys only diseased cells, healthy ones are not affected.

Ion radiation is directed to where the molecules containing water and tumor cells are located. After the beam hits them, hydrogen peroxide and free radicals appear. The resulting products block the work of diseased cells, their growth and reproduction.

The treatment of prostate cancer with radiation therapy is also based on the fact that the activity of radicals and hydrogen peroxide depends on metabolism.The higher it is, the more actively the tumor feeds, which, in turn, leads to an increase in the harmful effects of radiation on it.

This method of treatment is used at all stages of the development of the disease, regardless of the area of organ damage and the spread of metastases. In addition, radiation therapy is effectively used after removal of prostate cancer as a preventive and therapeutic agent.

The radiation directed at cancer cells is divided into two types:

Wave - based on gamma radiation and x-rays; the corpuscular method is proton therapy, which includes: electron radiation, alpha and beta particles, neutron and proton radiation.

There are three ways that radiation therapy can affect a malignant tumor:

Varieties of procedure

Currently, there are several varieties of radiation therapy for prostate cancer, the consequences and effectiveness of treatment depend on the form of the disease:

Conformal. It is used in the event that there is a need for complete and uniform irradiation of a pathogenic tumor. A 3D image of education is created. In this case, all tissues and organs located nearby are taken into account. Radiation ions affect only cancer cells, intact organs and tissues remain intact. With modulated intensity. The beam that is directed to the tumor is divided into several smaller ones. The strength of each of the beam streams is programmable. In this regard, healthy areas of the prostate receive a small dose of radiation, while disease-causing cells are the main effect. Proton. Experts believe that this method is the most effective for prostate cancer. Protons only affect diseased cells, but this procedure is not prescribed for all forms of cancer. Neutron. Used when other methods did not help.

Remote exposure

The peculiarities of this type of irradiation are that during the session there is a detrimental effect not only on diseased cells, but also on healthy ones. For the procedure, a special apparatus is used, it helps to regulate the wavelength, which contributes to the maximum possible reduction in the effect of rays on a healthy area.

This equipment is of high precision and should only be operated by a trained professional. If the device is used incorrectly, the patient may not improve his condition, but, on the contrary, worsen it.

First, an examination is carried out, after which a volumetric location of the tumor is built, and then the doctor tries to direct radio waves at it.

External beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer is given every day or according to a schedule drawn up by the attending physician for seven to eight weeks.

Remote therapy, in turn, is divided into two types: motionless and mobile.

The first view is as follows:

The patient is placed in one specific position. A radiation source is directed at it (it is also stationary).

Second view, mobile:

Move the radiation source. They direct it to the prostate tumor, the device moves around the patient and acts on cancer cells from all sides.

Sometimes when using this method, a short break in treatment is required.

Interstitial method (brachytherapy)

An effective treatment for cancer is brachytherapy. This method is most successful if the tumor is located within the prostate gland. Its essence is as follows: with the help of a special needle, a radioactive substance is injected into the tumor. Iodine -125 is used as a substance. The procedure is carried out under ultrasound control.

Depending on how the capsules containing the radioactive substance are located, brachytherapy is divided into:

After the procedure, the patient stays in the hospital for a day. Relief comes in a few days. The radioactive substance decays in the body within two months. During this time, cancer cells die.

The main plus of brachytherapy is that radiation affects only damaged cells, healthy ones remain intact. That is why after this procedure fewer complications develop than after remote irradiation.

Proton method and adjuvant therapy

This is one of the non-invasive types of radiation therapy that helps get rid of prostate cancer. This method is based on the most precise action of radiation on the pathogenic point formed in the gland. Due to the fact that the dose is distributed accurately, all forms of cancer are completely cured. There are no side complications.

The next option is adjuvant radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Used as:

Prevention; auxiliary means; a tool that complements surgery.

The goal of this therapy is to destroy the secondary tumor.

This method has an effect on the spread of cancer cells and their growth. The energy of powerful radiation is capable of killing diseased cells that remain after the operation. In this way, the effectiveness of treatment is increased. Depending on the desired purpose, internal or external radiation is used. It is sent to the site of tumor formation, reducing the risk of recurrence of oncology in this area.

Palliative Radiation Therapy

This radiation therapy is most often used for prostate cancer. The consequences of the disease in this case reach the fourth stage. The palliative view is aimed at alleviating the patient's condition. External radiation therapy helps to reduce swelling and pain and involves the following activities:

To relieve the symptoms of the disease, surgical intervention is performed, transurethral resection of the prostate. Thanks to palliative treatment, it is possible to reduce the development of the disease. This type of radiation therapy is prescribed in combination with hormonal drugs at the last stage of prostate cancer. This event reduces pain, eliminates the side effects of cancer cells. When locally advanced prostate cancer is detected, the ultrasound ablation technique is used, which also refers to palliative therapy. It helps to eliminate the side effects of the disease.

Consequences of radiotherapy

Although the introduction of new techniques can reduce negative feelings after the procedure, it is still radiation therapy. With prostate cancer, the consequences after it still exist:

There are problems with the rectum. Diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome may occur. Over time, these troubles go away. There are questions related to the work of the bladder and urination. The patient suffers from frequent urination, burning during it and the presence of blood in the urine. These troubles pass after a while. The development of impotence and erectile dysfunction. The frequency of occurrence of these problems is the same as after surgery. But there is a difference: after the operation, impotence develops immediately, and after irradiation - gradually, over the course of a year. After radiation therapy has been used for prostate cancer (reviews of patients who have gone through this procedure confirm this), at first, constant fatigue and fatigue are felt. This state persists for a couple of months. The outflow of lymph is disturbed. This is the cause of swelling of the lower extremities. Narrowing of the urethra. Sometimes the urethra is damaged, the outflow of urine is disturbed.

How to behave during treatment

Many people are concerned about the question: what to expect after radiation therapy for prostate cancer? Its effectiveness depends on compliance with the following rules:

During the procedure, nutrition should be not only high-calorie, but also complete. The diet should include all vitamins and minerals. Be sure to observe the drinking regime (up to three liters of fluid per day). Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. Clothing should be loose, light, made from natural fabrics. It is desirable to keep the radiation zones open. When going outside, they must be protected from the sun. Do not use soap and other cosmetics. When taking a shower, be aware of the marks on the body. If redness, itching, heavy sweating, be sure to consult your doctor. Constant walks in the fresh air, appropriate physical activity, sound and good sleep is another step towards getting rid of the disease.

Life after radiotherapy

Recovery begins immediately after the end of the irradiation sessions. It includes the following points:

Rest during the day; full sleep; gentle mode; emotional mood; proper and nutritious nutrition; giving up all bad habits.

During this period, the help of not only a doctor, but also relatives is very important.

Since the treatment is not over yet, you will have to go for procedures and studies, the emotional state often changes in this regard. The main thing during this period is not to withdraw into oneself, to communicate with friends and relatives. Try to keep the usual rhythm of life, do not give up household chores. If you are a little tired, lie down, rest.

If you work, ask management to put you on light duty for at least a little while. It is best, of course, to take a vacation for the rehabilitation period.

If all the doctor's recommendations are followed, the rehabilitation period will pass calmly, quickly and easily.

Procedure efficiency

The results are different at different stages:

Irradiation at the first stage can replace surgery, healthy organs and tissues remain intact. After a prostatectomy, radiation therapy is used for prostate cancer. The consequences after the operation in this case become minimal, since pathogenic cells are destroyed.In the later stages of the disease, radiation reduces pain.

Your health is in your hands. Try to visit your doctor regularly. He will monitor the course of the disease and prescribe treatment at the slightest deterioration.

Radiation therapy for prostate cancer in men: consequences

How radiation therapy is carried out for prostate cancer, the consequences of treatment - such issues are within the competence of an oncologist. Prostate cancer, like all malignant tumors, is a fairly serious disease. Cancer cells grow and block the work of the organ. The disease can lead not only to infertility, but also to coma, to death.

Usually, doctors suggest removing the diseased gland. Many patients are afraid of such treatment, and they ask doctors to prescribe radiation therapy. But the final choice remains with the doctors. Before surgery or radiation exposure, the patient is introduced to all the possible consequences of these manipulations.

How radiotherapy is performed for prostate cancer

Radiotherapy for prostate cancer is one of the main ways to treat the disease. This method is based on the impact of ionizing radiation of particles and wave radiation on the cells of the body. Irradiation for prostate cancer is prescribed at any stage, before or after a prostatectomy has been performed.

Prostate cancer responds well to treatment at stages 1 and 2. At stages 3 and 4, the disease is treated surgically, and only if the operation is impossible, radiation therapy is performed. Sometimes treatment is carried out by combining both methods. Radiation therapy is prescribed to patients after removal of the prostate, if the likelihood of recurrence of the disease is high. In particular, if the patient's PSA is zero. This treatment is not prescribed if the tumor has gone beyond the prostate gland, in the presence of numerous metastases.

With radiotherapy, the prostate can be treated internally and externally. After completion of the course, the tumor cells die, its development stops. The choice of method of exposure depends entirely on the state of the patient's body, its individual characteristics. Additionally, the patient is prescribed hormone therapy.

Specialists are considering the issue of minimizing the consequences of exposure. Doctors try to predict what complications may appear after the procedure. As a result of radiation exposure, the patient's condition may worsen significantly. After a comprehensive examination by doctors, the number of sessions is determined. If an organ was removed before irradiation, chemotherapy is prescribed.

External therapy means that radiation enters the prostate gland from the outside. To avoid complications after radiation therapy, it is necessary to accurately calculate the radiation dose and direct the irradiation stream to the prostate.

What are the contraindications for the procedure

There are such contraindications for irradiation:

The presence of languor in the bladder. Acute form of cystitis Inflammation of the rectum. Stones in the bladder. Irradiation of the same area in recent times.

Before the procedure, it is necessary to do an additional examination to determine the boundaries of the location of the prostate. This is done using x-rays or tomography.

The treatment uses three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy. It is prescribed if the tumor has a complex shape. In this case, a computer model of the neoplasm is created. With its help, the location of adjacent organs is taken into account. Thanks to this approach, the impact is on the tumor, the dose of radiation is delivered exactly to the right place.

The peculiarity of this method is that the main beam is divided into several smaller ones. The power of each beam is determined by the computer. This approach minimizes the impact on healthy cells and tissues. Irradiation with intensity modulation is carried out using a computer that moves around the patient.

The advantage of this method lies in the fact that the dose of radiation exposure can be changed and not irradiate healthy, disease-free cells. This method is more gentle than others, it is most often used in the treatment of prostate cancer. Stereotactic radiation therapy is carried out with special devices that irradiate the area where the tumor is located. Irradiation takes several days to complete, unlike other methods that take weeks. During the procedures, equipment from well-known manufacturers is used.

In some cases, X-ray irradiation is replaced by proton irradiation. In this case, proton beams act on the tumor. This method is currently considered the most modern. Protons are not as dangerous to healthy cells as X-rays.

But this method of treatment has not yet become widespread and is prescribed only for certain forms of prostate cancer.It is used in the event that exposure to traditional means did not give a positive result.

The second way to treat prostate cancer is internal radiation exposure. This method consists of using radioactive pellets the size of a grain of rice. They are inserted into the prostate. This method of treatment can be used only in the initial stages of the disease, when the tumor is still developing very slowly. This method also has contraindications.

Treatment is not performed if the prostate volume exceeds 60 cm3, and the patient's predicted life expectancy is less than 5 years. In diseases of the bladder, you will also have to abandon this method.

What are the consequences of radiation therapy for prostate cancer

Irradiation for prostate cancer does not pass without a trace for the body. The effectiveness of treatment with the same exposure in different patients may differ.

The consequences of radiation therapy for prostate cancer after appropriate treatment sometimes disappear quickly. But most often such conditions require serious and long-term recovery. During the first 14 days after exposure, there are usually no changes, they come a little later. During the irradiation, the patient also does not feel anything.

First of all, the intestines suffer. Due to irritation of this organ, diarrhea or, conversely, constipation begins. The patient complains of bloating. Diet is the solution. There may be a prolapse of hemorrhoids.

The next organ from which deviations are observed is the bladder. Most often in patients exposed to radiation exposure, cystitis occurs in the prostate area. The patient complains of frequent urination. This disease can go away or become chronic. In this case, the consequences are irreparable.

The next syndrome resulting from irradiation is urinary incontinence.

Erection problems are also hard to avoid. The deterioration of this function of the body occurs very slowly. As a result, impotence may occur. A similar outcome threatens approximately 50% of patients.

The treatment process itself is accompanied by constant fatigue, which disappears after the cessation of exposure.

Another possible complication is narrowing of the urethra. But it is rare.

Allergic reactions may occur in the area exposed to the rays. A rise in body temperature is not excluded.

After radiation therapy, regular visits to the doctor are necessary. 3 months after exposure, another PSA test is performed, which is repeated every 4 months. During the first three years after treatment, significant fluctuations in test results are possible. Additionally, it is recommended to donate blood for general analysis and biochemistry.