Prostate cancer

When prostate cancer is detected early — when it is still confined to the prostate gland — there is a better chance of successful treatment. Our cancer care doctors strongly recommend preventive screenings for prostate cancer by age 50 or earlier if you are at a higher risk, such as having a family member who had prostate cancer. One of the ways we screen is through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing.

PSA, a type of protein, is made in the prostate gland and is released into the bloodstream. A PSA test measures the levels of PSA in the blood and produces the following test results:

• Positive — With a positive test result, you have raised levels of PSA and are likely to be diagnosed with cancer.
• Negative — With a negative test result, the PSA levels are normal, indicating there is likely no cancer.

Sometimes, the results of this test may require you to have further testing to get an accurate diagnosis. You can talk to your prostate cancer doctor about the risks and benefits of a PSA screening to make an informed decision for your health.

If you should receive a cancer diagnosis, our prostate cancer care team will be with you through treatment, survivorship and beyond. There are many different treatments available for prostate cancer. In addition to common cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, you may need surgery. Our doctors specialize in the following prostate cancer procedures:

• Prostatectomy — surgery that partially or completely removes the prostate, often completed using minimally invasive surgical methods, but open surgery can be necessary in some cases
• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) — a minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery that helps ease or eliminate urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate using a laser to remove or destroy excess tissue causing urine flow problems

As a campus of Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, our patients have access to additional oncology services, if necessary.

If you would like more information about robotic surgery or our urology services, we offer the following helpful documents:

• Patient's Guide to Robotic Surgery
• Physician's Guide to Robotic Surgery
• Urology Information for Physicians
• Urology Information for Patients

We have been recognized by professional organizations for our excellence in prostate care. We are proud to be among Healthgrades' America's 100 Best hospitals for prostate surgery and to be a Prostate Removal Surgery Five-Star Recipient. In addition, we have the Prostate Surgery Excellence Award for our excellent care and clinical outcomes.