| Your doctor understands that all medical care benefits from close collaboration between physician and patient -- so be sure to review, with your doctor, all risks and alternatives and make sure you understand the reasons behind the recommendation for this particular procedure.
Now let's talk in detail about the procedure your doctor has recommended. That particular recommendation was based on a number of factors:
- the state of your health,
- the severity of your condition,
- an assessment of alternative treatments or procedures and finally,
- the risks associated with doing nothing at all.
And remember, the final decision is up to you. No one can force you to undergo a surgical procedure against your will.
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TURP is considered to be a simple surgical procedure. However, there are some alternatives. |
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Some patients benefit from lifestyle changes. Your doctor may ask you to try several adjustments, including: |
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trying to spend less time sitting
- and increasing sexual activity
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In a small percentage of cases, the prostate becomes enlarged due to a bacterial infection. Antibiotics can often treat the problem. |
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But the majority of cases are not bacterial and will not respond to antibiotics. |
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If you decide not to have the surgery your doctor recommends, you may experience symptoms that become more severe. And if the cause of your disease is in fact cancer, you may be placing you life at risk by declining your doctor's recommended treatment. |
Now I'd like to introduce you to another important member of the medical team -- the nurse. |
