As the state of technology improves, the options available to prostate cancer patients continues to improve as well. While green light PVP (Photoselective Vaporization Prostate) laser treatment was originally promoted for use in cases of benign prostate hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), its use has been subsequently adapted as a treatment option for individuals suffering side effects from the growth and development of prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer
According to the Mayo Clinic, prostate cancer is a type of cancer that most often strikes men who are over 50 years old. Prostate cancer exhibits a variety of urinary-based symptoms, including difficulty urinating, excessive urination, or the presence of pain while urinating or ejaculating. Advanced symptoms seen with prostate cancer include weight loss and localized pain in the lower back, legs and hips.
PVP Laser Treatment Usage
According to information from the Prostate Cancer Research Institute, PVP is one possible option for individuals suffering from the side effects and symptoms of prostate cancer, such as urinary blockage. PVP treatment is palliative in nature, which means that its overarching goal is to alleviate the pain and suffering associated with cancer as opposed to eradicating the cancer itself.
PVP Laser Procedure
PVP treatment is a minimally invasive procedure. During the procedure, a cystoscope is passed through the urethra to the area adjacent to the prostate. High-energy laser beams are then used to burn away a portion of the prostate, effectively debulking the area and alleviating some symptoms of prostate cancer.
Benefits
The primary benefit to PVP laser treatment is that is a relatively safe operation, as the high-energy beams cauterize the blood flow, eliminating bleeding almost entirely. Additionally, PVP laser treatment can often be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for the relief of the symptoms of prostate cancer without a hospital stay.
Considerations
Keep in mind that as PVP laser treatment is a palliative procedure, it will need to be combined with other prostate cancer fighting methods such as chemotherapy, surgery or radiation treatment for maximal effectiveness. One method that is often used is debulking the prostate with laser therapy before applying either chemotherapy or radiation therapy, decreasing the amount of "work" that must be performed during the latter procedures.
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