Introduction and hello

[MickyD]

I would like to introduce myself as a 66 year old, semi-retired New Zealander living in Auckland. In April 1999 I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and after some fairly intense research and consultation with my Oncologist, my wife and I decided that Brachytherapy was to be my preferred treatment. Unfortunately, at this time, Brachytherapy was unavailable in either New Zealand or Australia so we were left with the options of travelling to the UK or USA for this procedure. This option was agreed with by my Oncologist and he recommended the Crittendon Hospital Medical Centre in Rochester, Michigan and Dr Elayne Arterberry.

We duly travelled to Rochester and underwent the treatment which in physical terms was most successful as subsequent 6 monthly PSA scores attest. Unfortunately, since the treatment ED has gradually increased to the point where penetrative intercourse is no longer possible. I sought remedial therapy and over time have tried injections as well as the available medicinal treatments; Viagra, Cialis etc. These all led to some improvement but again, over time have proven to be ineffective. There has also been shrinkage (atrophy?) of my penis.

My general health is good despite having had both knees and one hip replaced, primarily as the result of injuries suffered through a long rugby playing career. I also have a wonderful and understanding wife!

Perhaps there is someone in the FrankTalk family that has been through a similar process with a better outcome. I look forward to receiving any advice.

Kind regards

Micky D

PS: My Oncologist did introduce Brachytherapy to New Zealand in November 1999.

[Gunshy]

Hello, I am now 6 weeks and 4 days post op with a titan otr. Still trying to get used to all this.
I know that there will be many questions.

[Cajun Jeff]

I did open surgery so can''t help with the Branchytherapy.

Welcome on FT. I know others will jump in.

Cajun Jeff

[ohohiakane]

Micky,
Welcome to Frank Talk. I hope you visit the Chatroom from time to time, and I hope we get to talk together.
The Crittendon Hospital Medical Centre is 25 miles from my home in Novi, Michigan.

Bill

[padreest]

Hi Mickey, Rochester/Rochester hills was my home until 98 when we relocated to Sumter SC. Critteten hosp very good and well known in that field. Hope you enjoyed your stay a little bit. Ron

[bw1951]

Hi Micky, I had brachytherapy 6 years ago when I was 55. Used Viagra initially for rehabilitation in order to avoid deterioration and shinking. Now need it to maintain an erection. Switchet to Cialis. Never had problems with Viagra but prefer Cialis since it last longer. I have the impression that both contribute to problems with delayed orgasms. Now need Flomax to pee and that seems to worsen the delay and it has also dried up the little ejaculate I had post radiation. My insurance doesn't yet cover daily use Cialis, but I'm figuring to try it once it does in hopes that it will eliminate the need for flomax. Every once in a while I wonder whether I should have chosen surgery. But I think brachytherapy instead of external beam radiation was the right choice. Good luck with your problem.

[imhungguy]

I have chronic urinary tract problems, mostly due to radiation in March for anal cancer, and take Flomax once a day. My ejaculate has been reduced to a few clear drops. I have mentioned this to several urologists and one actually asked me if I was inetnding to have children, and, if not (definitely NOT), why would I care? Like an old guy shouldn't want to shoot a nice load. Man, I was pissed. So, any solutions? Could try discontinuing Flomax, but don't want to worsen my condition. Help,men!