First Post

Having fulfilled all the qualifications for joining this forum, I thought I'd add my experience thus far in the hope it can help others. I know your posts have been beneficial to me.

Over the past several years my PSA has risen slowly to a max of 7.2. The first time it reached 6 I had a biopsy with negative results. WW ensued. When I reached 7.2 I had another BX (8.20.13) and cancer cells were found: 4/12 positive, highest concentration was 25%, T1c, G6. Holy crap! I am 64 yo, trim and fit with healthy eating habits thanks to my wife. We did some extensive research, read Dr Walsh's book, and consulted with our doctor. After much thought, but a short time, I opted for da Vinci surgery with a surgeon who had done over 500 procedures. Surgery done on 10.24.13. Results: size 55 gm, G6, 5% prostate involved, T2c, seminal vesicles and lymph nodes not involved, negative margins. Both nerves were spared. No complaints here.

Since surgery, I've had only one issue: catheter was removed but my swollen lower abdomen did not allow my bladder to pass urine--very painful! Catheter was re-inserted and I will take it out 11.4.13.

I'm walking and doing 100 Kegels daily. I've started Cialis. My doctor wants me to begin practicing with a vacuum device as well. Next event for me will be to see how my bladder functions on its own and of course
see if there is still life "down there."

Bob F

Welcome Bob. I hope your bladder problem gets better soon. Seems you are doing well other than that. Best wishes to you.

Don

hi normally...kegels before surgery & after the removal of the catheter is recommended by the physco & the surgeon...
All the best to your recovery..

Was the doctor confident that it was a " swollen " lower abdomen that caused the lack ability to pee? In your opinion or was he vauge. Is the swollen tummy be cause of air from surgery. I know robotic has that problem. What I don't understand is how a swollen tummy filled with air, if that is the cause of the swolleness, would restrict you urine. would you expand on the swollenes, in your own words.

Sorry you have to be here but sounds like you are recovering. I will add to what the others have said with regard to kegels. My surgeon said no kegels while catheter was in.

For logoslidat: my surgeon felt certain my lower abdomen was swollen from the surgery, not from the gas used during the surgery. It felt like an obstruction in the urethra to me, but he said the entire area was disrupted from the "intrusion." All the tissue swelled and thereby restricted the bladder. I felt the gas in my system (moved up my back to my shoulders) after surgery, but it really wasn't bad. It only lasted a few days.

Thanks to everyone for the advice on the kegels. I've stopped until the catheter comes out on Monday. Any advice on the Kegel physical therapy classes?
Bob

All the best to you.