Common treatment options for prostate cancer

Active surveillance

In some cases, prostate cancer treatment plans may not require medical intervention immediately. Active surveillance (commonly called "watchful waiting") closely monitors prostate cancer over time through routine testing to track any changes.

Often recommended when the cancer is found in its early stages and is slow-growing, low risk, and associated with low prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels
Involves tests like ultrasounds, digital rectal exams, and PSA blood tests to help identify cancer growth.

Surgery

If a doctor determines that medical intervention is necessary for prostate cancer treatment, surgery is a common option. A partial or radical prostatectomy involves removing part or all of the prostate gland.

Often recommended in earlier stages of cancer and when it is localized to the prostate.
Possible side effects include bowel dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and/or erectile dysfunction (ED).

Radiation

Prostate radiation therapy is another common option if medical intervention is necessary during treatment. This approach uses high-energy rays or particles to target and destroy cancer cells. The rectum may also be exposed during treatment due to how close it is to the prostate.

Often recommended in earlier stages of cancer and when it is localized to the prostate.
Possible side effects include bowel incontinence, urinary incontinence, and/or erectile dysfunction (ED).

Learn about the different types of radiation therapy

Among these options listed above, others include chemotherapy, vaccine treatment, cryotherapy, and hormone therapy.

Know the options

Watch a video to learn about the most common prostate cancer treatment options and the potential benefits and risks of each.

Learn how SpaceOAR Hydrogel™ may fit into your treatment plan

SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a minimally invasive pre-treatment option for men undergoing prostate cancer radiation therapy. It is an absorbable gel that temporarily creates space between the prostate and rectum, designed to reduce the radiation dose delivered to the rectum during prostate cancer radiation therapy which may help minimize the negative side effects of radiation therapy.

Learn more about SpaceOAR

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Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

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