On January 7th 2003, I underwent RetroPubic Radical Prostatectomy.
I was diagnosed in October 2002, PSA test 6.9,  which had been rising
slowly over past 5 years.  Two biopsies previously were negative.
Biopsy positive T1C,  in one lobe.  Gleason 3+3.  I was 70 at the time
of surgery,  and in excellent health.   To me surgery seemed to be the
most straight forward way of dealing with it.   Side effects among the
alternative treatments did not seem to be significantly more
desirable.   The not knowing whether radiation would be successful for
a long time was the final straw.   I wanted to know it was gone, and
surgery would give me the most confidence that it was.  

Surgery was "uneventful."  on Tuesday, released from hospital Friday,
with catheter.  Margins were all negative.  Gleason 3+3 was confirmed.
Catheter removed in two weeks.    

Recovery after that was not so "uneventful",  after a couple of days I
was having difficulty urinating.     Attempt to dialate my opening
caused severe swelling and blood clots, which resulted in catheter
insertion at the hospital emergency room.   After a weekend with it,
my doctor scheduled me for cystoscopy and "snipping" on the next day.

The snipping of scar tissue has been successful.   I have had no
further problems.   I was fairly continent within a week of the
catheter removal (second time)  It has gotten better since then.   I
have a  problem only if  I get very tired, or cough or sneeze.  I know
that I shouldn't try to wait, if I feel the urge, I'm looking for the
restroom where ever I am.

Over the past year I have had two PSA tests that have both been
"undetectable."   I believe I am due for a further test in the next
couple of months.  

Potency is still elusive.   Even before surgery, peyronie's disease
had taken its toll.   Shrinkage due to plaque, lower testosterone
levels (I suspect -- not from tests), then shrinkage from the pulling
the urethra up to take care of what was removed leave me with
insufficient interest and insufficient equipment to do what needs to
be done.  I have used a vacuum pump to keep the tissue stretched, but
so far nothing has occurred on its own of significance.    I did wake
up on Christmas morning, thinking "O boy, it's back"  but that has
been the only natural thing, and it disappeared rather quickly after I
woke up.  

Wayne

wayne1932(AT)juno.com