Dr. Walser is only performing the procedure in patients with tumors no larger than 2cm. While he has performed the procedure on larger lesions, the tumor recurs at a higher rate.

To combat the recurrence, the doctor has become more comfortable removing a larger margin of tissue from around the tumor. This margin may contain cancer cells that are not visible on MRI and which can lead to recurrence. There is a challenge with increasing the margin of tissue that is removed – it corresponds to an increase in potential complications like urinary retention.

While taking larger areas decreasing this risk, it has potential complications most commonly seen as urinary retention.  When we damage the prostate it becomes inflamed and compresses the urethra making it difficult to urinate. This risk increases with bilateral and larger lesions. We bridge this anticipated side effect with the catheter left in from 1 to several days connected to a leg bag. This is generally the most uncomfortable experience of the entire ablation process and is relieved once the catheter is removed.

If you have questions about these criteria or want to learn more, reach out to us.