Prostate cancer treatment options have advanced significantly in recent years, giving patients more effective choices with fewer side effects and faster recovery times. At Kansas City Urology and Oncology (KCUC), we are dedicated to providing access to the latest, most innovative therapies available. Here’s a closer look at some of the cutting-edge treatments we offer, from proton therapy and advanced surgical techniques like robotic surgery to hormone therapy and immunotherapy.
Proton Therapy at the Kansas City Proton Institute (KCPI)
Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation that targets tumors with high precision, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. KCUC is proud to offer proton therapy through the Kansas City Proton Institute (KCPI), a division of KCUC. Proton therapy is especially valuable for prostate cancer because it reduces the risk of side effects often associated with traditional radiation, such as bowel or urinary issues. This highly targeted approach allows patients to maintain a higher quality of life during and after treatment.
Robotic Surgery and the da Vinci Robot
Robotic surgery has revolutionized prostate cancer treatment options by allowing surgeons to operate with greater precision and control. At KCUC, our surgeons use the state-of-the-art da Vinci single port robotic system for minimally invasive prostate cancer surgeries. This system offers enhanced dexterity and visualization, which can lead to better outcomes, with only one small incision, allowing for faster recovery times for patients.
Robotic-assisted surgery allows surgeons to precisely remove the prostate while minimizing damage to surrounding nerves and tissues, which is critical for preserving urinary and sexual function post-surgery. The da Vinci system’s technology also reduces the risk of complications, making it a safe and effective choice for patients who are candidates for surgery.
Innovative Surgical Options for Prostate Cancer
In addition to robotic surgery, KCUC offers a range of advanced surgical techniques designed to match each patient’s needs. Some of the latest surgical options are tailored for patients with varying stages of prostate cancer and may include nerve-sparing techniques to preserve function or advanced laparoscopic approaches for less invasive treatment. We aim to provide a personalized approach to surgical care, ensuring that each patient receives the treatment option best suited to their condition.
Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Body’s Natural Defenses
Immunotherapy is another promising advancement in prostate cancer treatment. Unlike traditional treatments that target the cancer directly, immunotherapy strengthens the immune system, helping it recognize and attack cancer cells. Recent developments including PROVENGE, have focused on personalized immunotherapies that can be tailored to individual patients. PROVENGE takes cells from the patient, activates them, and returns them to the patient’s body thus boosting the immune system to target and attack cancer cells and keep them from spreading. PROVENGE is customized to each individual because it is made from his own immune cells. For some, immunotherapy may be used in combination with other treatments to enhance effectiveness, particularly for advanced or recurrent prostate cancer cases.
Hormone Therapy: Targeting Cancer Growth
Hormone therapy is a cornerstone of prostate cancer treatment, especially for cancers that have spread beyond the prostate. Prostate cancer cells often rely on androgens like testosterone to grow and multiply, and hormone therapy works by reducing or blocking these hormones. Advances in hormone therapy now offer more precise options that can delay cancer progression and manage symptoms with fewer side effects. These treatments are especially beneficial for patients whose cancer is not responsive to other forms of therapy or who may need additional treatment alongside surgery or radiation.
Choosing Advanced Care with KCUC
At KCUC, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of prostate cancer treatment options, integrating the latest therapies to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Whether it’s hormone therapy, immunotherapy, proton therapy, or the da Vinci robotic surgical system, our team of specialists works together to offer individualized treatment plans that bring the best of modern medicine to each patient.
Coordinated Prostate Cancer Care Team
At KCUC, we not only provide access to the most advanced cancer treatments but also prioritize a collaborative, team-oriented approach to care. Our team consists of over 35 urology cancer specialists, including experts in surgical procedures, pathology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. This coordinated model enables us to tailor your treatment plan precisely, addressing each aspect of care from accurate diagnosis through follow-up.
By fostering open and continuous communication between our cancer specialists, we streamline the care process, minimize delays, and optimize your overall experience. Our integrated approach means you have access to comprehensive support and resources, empowering you to focus fully on your health and recovery.
Compassionate, Patient-Centered Care
At KCUC, our commitment to excellence extends beyond medical expertise. We understand the emotional and physical challenges of a cancer diagnosis and believe in treating each patient as a whole person. By emphasizing emotional support alongside physical health, we strive to reduce stress and anxiety, providing holistic care to make your journey a little easier.
If you or a loved one is facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, contact KCUC to learn more about these innovative treatment options and how they can be tailored to your unique needs. With KCUC and KCPI, you can trust that you are receiving advanced, compassionate care from a team dedicated to achieving the best outcomes.