Salvage Therapy for Recurrent Prostate Cancer

Even after initial, successful treatment, prostate cancer can return. Colorado Urology’s salvage therapy program, led by Dr. Damian Sorce, gives hope to patients who experience recurrence after prostatectomy or radiation therapy.

What is Salvage Therapy for Recurrent Prostate Cancer?

Salvage therapy is a secondary treatment used in patients whose prostate cancer has returned. The goal is to eliminate remaining cancer cells to prevent further growth and spread within the prostate.

A recurrence of cancer is determined by rising PSA. After a radical prostatectomy, PSA should drop to nearly zero. After radiation therapy, PSA typically falls to 0.03 ng/mL or lower.

If your PSA begins to rise months or years later, it may indicate recurrence. Salvage therapy aims to “salvage a cure.”

Salvage Brachytherapy

For patients previously treated with radiation, Dr. Sorce often uses brachytherapy (radioactive seed implantation). Because primary radiation therapy can damage surrounding healthy tissues, minimizing additional injury in nearby structures is important.

The use of a rectal spacer, a protective gel placed between the prostate and rectum before brachytherapy begins, is a key component of salvage therapy. The barrier created by this gel significantly reduces the risk of rectal damage during salvage brachytherapy.

Why Salvage Therapy at Colorado Urology?

• Expertise in advanced focal and salvage therapies
• Use of protective rectal spacer technology for safety and protection of healthy tissue
• Personalized treatment tailored to your cancer’s recurrence pattern
• Access to a wide range of urological specialists

Even if your prostate cancer has returned years after treatment, you have options.

Contact Colorado Urology at 888-401-7149 or 303-695-6106 to schedule an evaluation by Dr. Sorce and to discuss whether salvage therapy is right for you.