Post-surgical PSA tests - "standard" or "ultra-sensitive

I have robotic surgery with Dr. Patel this Friday. Thinking ahead to the follow-up PSA tests, should I go for the "ultra-sensitive" kind? On one hand, I've heard that it can give an earlier indication of recurrence. On the other hand, I would think that "PSA anxiety" would be an issue.  One urologist had told me that there is no statistical benefit for adjuvant therapy until/when/if a PSA reaches 0.4 or above. Would post-surgical pathology have any bearing to the choice? Thanks

Good question, CaPCA,
You look in good shape for excellent results after surgery. But my oncologist does not feel inclined to give me ultra sensative tests, and I had a bad post-op pathology. He does not agree, however, with the 0.4 thing. He and my radiation oncologist were split on radiations benefit, but He absolutely felt that I needed hormone treatment right away and while I have never had a post-op PSA indicate any rise in PSA. In fact my RO was able to show studies that indicated that people who have my stage were benefitting from post-op HT and RT when it was done before a rise in PSA. While noone is home free when they were positive for PCA, your diligence to keep on it may have just been the best medicine for you. Good luck in your surgery.

Tony

     Hi ~   CaPCA & Loved Ones,   Thinking of you and sending special thoughts your way as you move toward surgery day…   As you feel up to it ~ touch base!!   We hope   “Our Journey” helps to guide you over at least one stepping-stone on your path.   Keeping you close… in thoughts and prayers.     “Our hands will be on your shoulders” special words borrowed from hamala   In Friendship,   ~~ * ~~ * ~~ * ~~~ )*&^%   Group Hug %^&*( ~~~ * ~~ * ~~ * ~~   From the 3 of us... Lee, Buddy, & Murphy     Threads started by:   CaPCA New to Forum - need some advice on nerve bundle sparing Post-surgical PSA tests - "standard" or "ultra-sensitive "Enhancements" to the nerve-sparing prostatectomy