Being diagnosed with prostate cancer can be a traumatic moment in the life of a male patient and his family. In spite of the complexity of the disease and its associated treatments, it is important to know that it is absolutely possible to overcome the aftermath of prostate cancer. Medical developments, especially in the post-surgery rehabilitation area, offer new possibilities to improve the patients’ life quality.
In this article, we explore how radiofrequency technology, and specifically the one offered by Capenergy, can help in the post-prostate surgery recovery, focussing on urinary incontinence and other common side effects.
The reality after the diagnosis
According to the data of the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology, an estimated 30.000 new cases of this type of cancer will be diagnosed in 2024. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer amongst men.
The treatment of this disease can include surgery, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy. Radical prostatectomy, which is the complete removal of the prostate, is a common procedure but it has significant side effects, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Urinary incontinence, in particular, can severely affect the patient ‘s life quality. A lot of men experience anxiety and depression after the diagnosis and treatment and the lack of control of the urinary function can aggravate these feelings. Nevertheless, it is important they know they are not facing this fight alone and that effective solutions are available.
Post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence after surgery is a symptom affecting a large percentage of men that have undergone radical prostatectomy. This problem does not only imply involuntary urine loss: it can also generate insecurity and limitations to everyday life.
Prostatectomy is the surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissues. The risks associated with this procedure are:
- Problems with bladder control (urinary incontinence)
- Erectile issues (impotence)
- Rectum injuries
- Urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra due to scar tissue)
Urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy is a complication occurring in 5-25% of patients having undergone the surgery. This complication generates a serious deterioration of the patient ‘s life quality.
This happens because the prostate surrounds the urethra, supporting the pressure of a full bladder. Removing the prostate can have an effect on the amount of pressure the urethra is capable of supporting.
Incontinence after radical prostatectomy is associated with a reduction of sexual satisfaction, a limitation of everyday activities and a desire to undergo another surgery.
Studies show that many men continue experiencing side effects months after the surgery. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that it is possible to restore the urinary function in a fast and effective way. A study published in Laser’s in Medical Science reveals that the treatment with Capenergy’s second generation radiofrequency can completely solve incontinence in 40% of patients in just 6 weeks time.
Urinary incontinence treatment after prostate cancer
Current available treatment for incontinence after prostatectomy varies from conservative or aggressive:
- Artificial sphincter: consisting of a hydraulic system with a sleeve that surrounds the urethra, a balloon that regulates the pressure of the system and an activation pump that is placed in the scrotum.
- Surgical Technique: The sphincter sleeve, the reservoir balloon and the activation pump are all inserted through incisions. As with all surgical interventions, different complications can appear such as infection, erosion and urethral atrophy.
- Physiotherapy can help patients through the combination of several techniques: training of the pelvic floor muscles, biofeedback, functional electrostimulation, …
Capenergy radiofrequency treatment after prostate cancer
Capenergy’s radiofrequency technology is an innovative solution for men experiencing urinary incontinence after prostatectomy. This treatment has a non-invasive approach focused on the stimulation of collagen production, reduction of inflammation and elimination of pain.
Capenergy’s radiofrequency devices, stimulate and increase angiogenesis and local vascularization. They furthermore denature and remodel the old collagen and elastin fibers and stimulate the fibroblasts to generate new collagen and elastin.
How does the Capenergy treatment work?
The treatment with Capenergy second generation radiofrequency is carried out through weekly sessions of endocavitary applications. This procedure is safe and painless, has no side effects and does not require sedation, which allows patients to receive ambulatory treatment without the need of downtime.
Radiofrequency actives the water molecules of the tissue, generating heat that helps restore elasticity and the bladder function. Furthermore, this treatment stimulates the regeneration of damaged tissues and improves circulation, enabling a faster and more effective recovery.
Positive results in patients after prostate cancer surgery
The results of the study carried out by Laser’s in Medical Science are encouraging. Participating patients showed a significant improvement in urinary incontinence and the full bladder sensation. Dr. Sodré, responsible for the study, affirms that “the non-ablative endo-anal radiofrequency treatment has shown to achieve a reduction of urine loss and the majority of patients are satisfied with the results.”
These advances do not only improve the life quality of prostate cancer survivors, they also allow them to recover their confidence and emotional wellbeing.
Overcoming the aftermath of prostate cancer is completely feasible and innovative technologies such as Capenergy ‘s radiofrequency offer a new road to recovery. Urinary incontinence, a common secondary effect of prostatectomy, does not have to define a man ‘s life. Thanks to Capenergy’s treatment, patients can regain control over their health and life quality.
If you are interested in knowing more about how a Capenergy radiofrequency device can transform the treatments in your clinic and improve your patients’ life quality, feel free to contact us for more information and request a free demo.
