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Prostate Cancer - Watchful Waiting
Watchful waiting, or active surveillance, is based on the premise that some cases of localized prostate cancers may advance so slowly that they are unlikely to cause men ― especially older men with a short life expectancy ― any problems during their lifetimes. Some men who opt for watchful waiting have no active treatment unless symptoms appear. They are often asked to schedule regular medical checkups and to report any new symptoms to the doctor immediately.
Watchful waiting has the obvious advantage of sparing a man with clinically localized cancer, who typically has no symptoms, the pain and possible side effects of surgery or radiation. On the minus side, watchful waiting risks decreasing the chance to control a disease before it spreads, or postponing treatment to an age when it may be more difficult to tolerate. Of course, treatments may also improve over time if watchful waiting is chosen. Another potential disadvantage is anxiety; some men don't want the worry of living with an untreated cancer.
Patients should educate themselves on the risks vs. benefits of not initiating definitive treatments for prostate cancer, and discuss the option of watchful waiting with their doctor.
While clinical studies support the effectiveness of the da Vinci® System when used in minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary. Surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.