Questions to ask my Urologist after salvage radiation treatments completed

[DLetterman]

After completing an 8-week course of salvage radiation treatment consisting of 40 sessions, I'd like to discuss my current status with my Urologist during an upcoming appointment. What specific questions should I ask during this visit? He is a good surgeon; however, he does not offer much information during appointments unless I ask.

[Tall_Allen]

At this point, your urologist may be useful as urological problems arise, so your questions should be about them if they occur.

[DLetterman in reply to Tall_Allen]

Do you have any suggested questions I should ask my RO and/or MO?

[Tall_Allen in reply to DLetterman]

Just your PSA monitoring schedule - no need to bring in an MO.

[DLetterman in reply to Tall_Allen]

Would there be possible benefits (now or in the future) to having a Decipher test?

[Tall_Allen in reply to DLetterman]

None. Decipher can be used to help decide on treatment. You are post-treatment.

[Teufelshunde]

Not sure why you are meeting with your urologist. I would think a meeting with your RO is more standard. If thing go the wrong way, then the RO or a MO would come into the picture. See your Uro if you need some viagra or tri-mix.

[DLetterman in reply to Teufelshunde]

This upcoming appointment with my urologist just happened to be just after the conclusion of my salvage radiation. Do you have any suggested questions I should ask my RO and/or MO?

[Teufelshunde]

My RO did blood tests and was following my numbers since radiation can mess with those. Also watched PSA, and asked about any ongoing or new side effects. Had some minor gas issues that are better. Pretty much done with all of them now. Just have PSA every 4 months. My Uro still gives me low dose viagra to keep blood flow going.

[DLetterman in reply to Teufelshunde]

None of my doctors have requested any blood work. Other than my PSA, what blood work should I request?

[Teufelshunde]

I would think they would order a CBC (complete blood count) with Differential and platelets, and check iron levels. I also get a CMP to check liver and other items. They did this a couple of times during radiation, when done, and after.

[Teufelshunde]

If they refuse, you can order on your own at ultalabtests.com. Pretty inexpensive and draw is at Quest.

[EaNa]

I was in the same situation just a few months ago. You don't mention if you also had hormonal therapy but that's where most of my issues and concerns came from, not so much from the RT. Have you had any side effects during your treatment? Some questions might be regarding what to expect as far as that's concerned. As far as determining the level of success of the treatment, that is monitored by PSA checkups. I suppose it's never too early to start asking what's next if the treatment isn't successful but in my case I decided I'd rather stay positive until that question becomes obviously necessary, hopefully it never has to be asked.

[j-o-h-n]

Hey David,

Ask him/her should you expect any residual effect (burning or otherwise) from the 39 days of radiation. If so, then when?.........(tell him/her to use his/her crystal ball).....I found out I was fried about 2 years later. Anyway -

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Thursday 11/02/2023 6:10 PM DST