COMPLICATIONS OF PROSTATE RADIATION

    Physicians often determine that the most effective way to treat prostate cancer is with some form of radiation. This may involve directing an x-ray beam to destroy the cancerous tissue, surgically planting radioactive "seeds" within the tumor, or a combination of these therapies. The goal is to stop or slow the growth of the malignancy, shrink it improve urinary function or to make surgical removal easier, or to completely destroy it through radiation.

    Side effects can occur long after the radiation treatment, and are not restricted to the target area (prostate). The incidence of the damage can only be expected to increase with increased diagnosis and radiation treatment of prostate cancer.

    Injury of the rectum and lower intestine can result from radiation treatment of the prostate. Damage to the bladder, urethra, pelvic bone, and the pelvic floor (muscle tissue at the base of the pelvis), persistent pain and bleeding, and abnormal attempts of the body to heal injured tissue can be potential problems.

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY improves symptoms in 50 to 60 percent of patients, sometimes completely.

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