Finally someone with a positive outlook after radical prostatectomy. I am having my surgery in 2 weeks and I needed to hear someone positive which gives me hope for what I am about face. Thanks, Mark. Your smile made the difference for me.
Thank you Mark. I am 56 and retired early so I can enjoy life. I have surgery in 3 days and my emotions are all over the place but it's nice to hear your journey for reassurance. I hope mine goes as well as yours. God Bless
Thanks for documenting this! I am 51 and my surgery is scheduled for 2 weeks time. I live in Ottawa Canada - not that that makes a difference but I do appreciate hearing from someone who has gone through this whole process - stay well!
Thanks for your honesty and humor. I'm going in, in a few weeks for the same surgery and every little bit of information helps. Ignorance is what makes things scary so kudos to you for providing these videos.
Just had mine a week ago. Catheter comes out tomorrow!! And yes looking at the catheter is not a good time . But , but …. It’s a small price to pay! Thank you thank you Mark!! I watched your videos over and over again and decided to have the surgery and it save my life 🙏🙏🙏
Thanks Mark. I am going into hospital in 2 days to have my prostate removed. Thnaks for taking the time to share your experience. It certainly helps combat the severe fear of the unknown.
Thank you for this, @Mark. Keeping things in perspective, staying positive, and with the endgame of being cancer free the theme all of your videos has been very helpful for me throughout my recovery.
I had my surgery 6 weeks ago, Healing fine, just keep doing your kegels after you have the Catheter removed. Just follow Dr instructions and make sure you have a physical therapist help you along. It's all about getting your head in the game. 6weeks hardly any leakage. Thank you Mark you see truly blessed
Mark I'm an English patient here in Portsmouth. I'm in day 2 post op, I love your demeanour and how upbeat you are, this actually mirrors my attitude since diagnosis. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience
Thank you Mark I needed this. I’m on the fence on what I want to do here. Like you I never had a tube coming out of me meaning a catheter. I’m so scared right now so I’ll keep watching this video. I see a radiologist in a few days so after comparing notes with both radiation and surgery I’ll make my decision and step out on faith to save my life. This is by far the best video from someone who has experienced what I’m gonna maybe go through.
G'Day from Australia! I had my surgery last Friday (29 Sep 2023) and have my catheter out tomorrow. Everything you said is spot on. Hey guys, remember to keep your catheter bag below your bladder level - only important when you're sitting down, otherwise it can't drain and (I understand) it can start to really hurt.
Hi mark! I'm so thankful for this vid.. my father is in catheter right now and i was so worried that he might not recover... we're not in good terms right now but I'm still worried. i still want him to get healed and somehow God could change him. Thank you so much!! God bless you!
Mark, your presentation on your prostate experience was very well presented and interesting. I am also a survivor of prostate cancer however I opted for radiation. So far I've survived ( I'm 90 ! ) I look forward to future podcasts. Good luck and keep healthy.
I found out last week and I felt that it was so unreal. I have watched a ton of RUclips videos and understand the path we will have to walk but I feel more positive. I am sure I will be nervous on the day but it is the road to recovery and health. Anyway all my hopes for your future. We have this.
I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and my surgery is scheduled for 5 weeks from now. I've been doing a lot of research online and I came upon this channel a week ago and it has been a great resource. It doesn't have to be all technical and scientific to be useful. Learning about the actual experience is probably more useful than anything else and this video series certainly achieves that. I'm not really worried about the whole process or even for the future. I have to say though, the catheter experience and the subsequent incontinence does have me uneasy. This particular video went a long way towards making me feel more at ease. I'm sure I'll be uneasy again right after the surgery, but as Mark said, when you consider the prognosis, you can live with it. I'll be watching the rest of the series leading up to my surgery. Thanks for putting this together, Mark.
@@prostatecancerexperience I’m 9 days, post-surgery. All is well so far. The catheter comes out tomorrow. That has been the worst part, though nothing anyone can’t handle. Just a daily nuisance.
This is a great thing, to let people know the reality of what happens. As a retired pastor, I went on a pastoral retreat a week after I was decatheterised, and found a couple of the other men were very curious about the procedure, which made me realise that there was a place for information, and not just for people who were facing imminent surgery. I realise that, while both my father and my brother had prostatectomies, we didn't discuss the details. I had a prostatectomy 2 months ago, and I had been thinking that perhaps I should organise some kind of information event for men facing prostatectomies. For example, one of the other men at our church has a slow-growing cancer so at present isn't facing cancer, but that will change. I could achieve the same by referring people to your channel. One thing I found was that, by the final couple of days of living with the catheter, walking had become quite exquisitely painful, as I hadn't been given any kind of desensitising gel. I am a widower and stayed with my daughter post surgery. She decided to take me out for coffee for a break from incarceration in her back bedroom (she's an extrovert, so she notices that kind of thing before I do!) I had to cross a quiet street to get to the shop, and really doubted that I would make it. Other than having a painfully burning sensation when they gave me a potassium infusion in hospital, that was the worst part of the whole process, though. It was relieved as soon as the tube was taken out.
Catheter removal is not uncomfortable. Especially if the person is experienced. I did not even notice it. I had to have one removed three times. I had a catheter for 42 days, so changed for hygiene reasons.
Thanks Mark for your video series. I'm getting my surgery in two weeks. Not looking forward to going tubing for a whole week but your videos have made me feel a lot better. Thanks again.
Great video Mark, I'm 48 hours post da Vinci prostatectomy.... I've had small clots of blood in the bag, and it is reassuring to hear this is normal... Thanks
I've been using a non-reusable one for about a year now. My operation has been delayed many times due to Covin 19, which I never had. The VA hospital needed the beds. A nurse and a medical school student told me how to insert it. The catheter was not inserted. They told me that I would figure that out by myself. I need to use one about five times a day. I use a lot of Surgie lube. When I insert it, especially the first few times, I felt some pain and a little stinging. Getting it past my swollen prostate was very uncomfortable for a few days. I could feel it entering and exiting that area with discomfort, but I got used to that feeling. When it hits that area, you need to insert and remove it very slowly, which helps it to cause less discomfort. I follow these steps: 1. Place a clean paper towel next to your sink. 2: Raise the toilet seat, and wash your hands. 3: Remove the catheter by folding the end of the cover and pulling it out of the package. 4: Have the cap of the lube open before you start the procedure and place the catheter on the clean paper towel. Lube it freely and stand over the toilet and insert it slowly. 5: When the urine has stopped flowing, your bladder will constrict, which hurts somewhat 6: Remove the catheter slowly, and once it passes the prostate, the rest of the removal is easy with minimal discomfort. The more you use a catheter, the less it will bother you. For me, it's about 10 minutes. Following this procedure should help you to avoid getting a UTI.
Your info very helpful . I asked my urologist about if anyone services their own catheter and they said no . Every time I can’t pee I have to wait in hospital emergency room for 3 hours last Sunday . Very painful holding in but it wouldn’t come out. I’m gonna buy some from eBay and do myself next time . Thanks again for info. Thanks for serving .
You have a bad situation and an even worst urologist. I'm being treated by a VA Urologist who not only recommended I use a catheter when needed but also showed me the proper way to use one. Unless there is something special about your condition, I would recommend you find a real Urologist. Utilizing a catheter is safe and easy though sometimes a little painful, but the result is well worth it.@@tomcase8582
I am getting ready to turn 66 and will have the surgery soon...appreciate your insight, but guess it is normal that I have alot of fears...never had surgery or ever stayed in hospital, so have many concerns, but the fear of the cancer is more concerning....again thanks for your series and I hope I can handle it as well as you have
I have been diagnosed with PC and will have my consultation this Friday 8/19/22 at Penn to determine the date to have surgery. Thank you for shari g this. My biggest fear is exactly this... the dreaded catheter
Yes for me it was uncomfortable I had the nerve block & now this is day 2 without the catheter a little leakage right now , but healing nicely myself & had a great surgeon!
I had a catheter in for 10 weeks on diagnosis. I hadn't slept so well for years. No constant trips to the toilet or constantly waking up at night. My snags started when they eventually took it out. After having been on holiday for 10 weeks my bladder was very reluctant to get back off the bench. Getting there slowly.
I go in tomorrow to have the catheter removed. Hasn't really bothered me until last night when it was irritating the last 2 - 3 inches. Took a hydrocodone and woke this am feeling fine. Really, the constipation from the nerve block was hardest to deal with. No need to get "out and around", so have not switched to the leg bag. Have a small "bypass"leakage around the cath (although it drains fine) so have taken to wearing the adult pull-up disposable diapers and will probably continue them until the kegals have retrained my spincters. For USA Medicare patients, most Advantage programs include many continence products such as pads, shields, diapers, underpads.
Thanks you so much for your videos. I'm 66 years old, had elevated PSA so they did a biopsy, found cancer in one area...Gleason score of 6. Right now I'm talking to radiologist, and surgeon...but right but am taking the "Active Surveillance" path. Clark Howard also has prostate cancer and has been monitoring it...might be good for people to also check his information. Once again thank you so much for your info.
Thank you Mark for the videos. My husband was just diagnosed with prostate cancer so these videos help. Question: did you have to take any medication after you came home? He’s ready to get it over with 🙏😇✅
I am at the beginning of day 4 after surgery. Your information is spot on and extremely beneficial. They have helped me so much during this process. TY.
I had to have one in me which was there for 2 months, 2 years after you. I then had the T.U.R.P.S operation, so I still have my prostate but I have a PSA blood test every 6 months to make sure the cancer is not coming back.
Just had my procedure with the Davinchi system, but all of your excellent you never mention antibiotics as part of the remedy. Was also wondering if it’s normal to have some level of sour in my inner working area?Thanks.
Before I had my prostate cancer diagnosis, I was rushed to the hospital because of a bladder obstruction (which ultimately was due to the prostate cancer) & had to have a catheter put in to drain the fluid (5000ml & 35 lbs drained). Because of the urologist I had at the time, I ended up having to live with the catheter for over 30 days (in between he had performed the biopsy & TURP at the same time, yet left the catheter in) until just after the diagnosis was given to me (after the catheter was removed, I still couldn’t pee on my own, yes, even after the TURP-which this urologist did a crap job on) so I had to self catheter myself any time I needed to pee. We fired that urologist & found a fantastic urologist to work with & during the discussion for the prostate removal surgery, he said my life would be changed for a week or so after because of the catheter. I chuckled and said, well, I’m an old pro at that & reminded him of my 30 days with it from the bumbler urologist. The new urologist performed a perfect TURP soon after & I was peeing like a champ. Started hormone therapy in March & had the prostate removal surgery performed just about 2 weeks ago. When the nurse came in to give me the instructions on how to live with the catheter I just smiled and told her about my 30 days with it so she laughed and said, well then, nevermind. Even with knowing how to use it and live with it, it was frustrating due to the bladder spasms & urge to urinate, along with some leakage, but I had a shorter time with it this go around and remember the bladder spasms subsided after week 2 last time. So for guys going through this, know it is a temporary situation & the day bag is a great way of staying active while you wait for it to be removed.
I hope you get this comment. Is currently 2024. I have a difficult time peeing at night! Hard to start in not all of it comes out. I urinate at least six times per night! And I'm wondering will this cause a major problem if I do any procedure! Proton therapy or prostectomy.
@@ricknowak4582 any procedure involving the prostate, which is the culprit behind many problems with men and urinary issues, will help. Although, I haven’t had a prostate in 5 years, I still am up to pee a few times a night as the prostate gland would assist the bladder sphincter in keeping the urge to go at a minimum until the bladder was too full to ignore. If you are having difficulty peeing, I would ask your urologist about the TURP so you’ll be able to eliminate so much better. This procedure was done for me months before they finally removed the prostate and it was so nice to have a strong stream again that emptied the bladder.
Had mine months ago. Still leaking. But improving, so be patient. The reality is you might get frustrated, but remember it's lifesaving and you're not alone
Mark, thank you for your guidance and advice. It gave me a great help and courage to understand to what will I experience to this major part of my life.. This is my fifth day after my operation.
Can I say you're a very good looking man. I watch your videos my man had a prostate surgery almost a month ago see how things goes from here I like your post by the way.
After your catheter removed how was the Incontinence. Mine was removed this morning and I think it leaks a lot! I sit watching rcmp for a while then I get up to get to the bathroom and after about 15 steps it leaks a lot that I have had to change the pAds almost every time???
Most catheters stay in for 1 week. Mine had to stay in 4 weeks. It was miserable. I ended up slower than average in recovery. I am now 6 months post surgery.
Hi Mark, Thanks for your videos. I'm in day 9 after the DA Vinci op. Doing fine but find the bladder 'spasms' really uncomfortable. What did you do for this? Is there any way to lessen it?
My first catheter I had in the spring of 2020 because of my swollen prostrate . Because of Covid. So I couldn’t have any surgery. So I had the catheter for 2 1/2 mos. During his time I painted the ceilings of my house. So I got paint specks on my hose. I would just hang the big bag on my pocket. I never had to get up at night to pee . But by morning I was afraid the bag may burst! Scary stuff. I would develop A UTI in about 15days. That hurt! And the pee looked like pink milk! After the hospital opened up I had surgery. In June of 2020. But they found prostrate cancer so I had it removed 2 months ago. So now I onl get up 2 times a night. But I am getting better . For me it’s a long road. We’ll it’s only been 2 months.
Hi Mark and thanks for sharing your experience. Today it us my 4th day after removal of the catheter. I am concerned because my urine string is thin some times interrupted with drops, I push and the string does not change the caliber. I was thinking to call the surgeon tomorrow. I wanter to ask since your catheter was removed you had a strong thick string , I mean normal like before surgery?
After my prostatectomy my catheter stayed in for two weeks. When it was as removed I started to have terrible pain because I was unable to urinate. The catheter was reinserted for another two weeks. After that I was fine.
Ed, you will get through this easier than you think. Just stay positive, and focus on why you are doing this. This is what you need to do to ensure a full and complete life ahead, without the burden of cancer in it. If you have specific questions, I am happy to help to answer them.
Hi Mark. Did u go back afyer a week for them to take out catherter and what ia the proposed after care ie what more t ests u need to do and how often tp check
Dont know if you still check in here, but you didnt say anything about how you slept with a catheter , and if there was any problems with laying on the tube, im having an Aquablation procedure soon,
I had a catheter after a colon resection 3 years ago. After a week I removed the catheter myself at home (instructions provided by a nurse). After you release the water in bulb the catheter slides out on its own very slowly. May seem odd but I found the sensation arousing.
Hi Mark, A different catheter approach is the suprapubic catheter, which is what I received 2 days ago. It’s even MORE bizarre than a urethral catheter because it sticks into your abdomen above the penis. I only got the courage to look at it last night when I changed the dressing. A catheter coming out of my penis was removed the day after surgery. Don’t know if this is a new approach to prostatectomy. I think the benefit is that there is almost no urgency to urinate with the suprapubic setup. I’ll test my readiness to pee normally by plugging the catheter myself after one week, and then having the catheter removed by my surgeon the next day if all works well.
Learning what is to come after this surgical procedure, it is probably best not for men to see this video or any other video about what happens afterwards. Catheters, pee bags, and no doubt, a lot of pain. I can’t think of much worse that what has been described here. What about the possibility of infections?
I have really enjoyed your videos! I am debating surgery versus radiation. I have a Gleason grade 7 on two of 12 samples from biopsy. What made you choose surgery versus radiation. Also do you know of a website that one can use to research urologists experience with robotic surgery?
Get the surgery and if there is any cancer left then radiation. Learn to do kegels before surgery to help with leakage after surgery. I gone through both surgery and radiation. Just go with the flow and it is over before you know it.
Hi Mark I may end up having to have my prostate removed soon. This catheter subject is freaking me out a bit. You didn’t talk about what the pain level was when they removed the catheter. I’m thinking on a scale of 1-10, it would have to be a 10! This catheter subject is the scariest part of it. Also did you have to have chemo treatments after your surgery?
I’m with you. Just the fact this thing going through my penis and I’m so sensitive there is freaking me out for I never had one in me. I’m praying hard about this.
Hello Mark thank you for your video it is informative, i have a question i had a catheter inserted due to urine restriction, did you had any pain on top of your penis or inside at all , i’m on my second day but i can feel bit of pain when i sit in my car, please advise me. Thank you Abdul from London
I had my rectum removed and the urologist surgeon that my surgeon called in had found a hole in my bladder so they had to fix it and so I had a catheter for 2 weeks and I with I would've had a numbing jelly I could put around my penis to numb some of the discomfort
Hi Mark, on December 23 2016 I was told I have prostate cancer. I first consulted with a radiologist, which frankly was a bit frightening, concerning all the possible side effects. I will be consulting with the Robotic surgeon tomorrow. My Gleason scores were were all 6 with one 7. When I asked my Doctor if the cancer may have spread outside the prostate his response was, I doubt it as your PSA is 4.6 which is fairly low. To ensure that your cancer was contained within your prostate, did your Doctor recommend a MRI or CT scan prior to surgery? For me it would only make sense to avoid unnecessary surgery if in fact it had spread to my bones. Thanks for sharing your experience, it has been very helpful in determining the type of procedure I may take. BTW, you and I look about the same age and in good health, best, Lance
Lance, thanks for your question. Typically, with Gleason scores of 6 and 7, and with a PSA of 4.6, the odds are GREATLY in your favor that the cancer is limited to your prostate. You should know that prostate cancer is extremely slow moving, and very rarely, at this early state is found outside the cancer. In that respect, prostate cancer is considered one of the most treatable and most curable. The best way for peace of mind, and to maximize your chances of being cancer free for life, is to have the surgery. I will be happy to follow up further, and go into all the reasons why, but just know that these prostate cancer surgeries are almost routine at this point. Don't get overly stressed over this, as you are in the company of many other men who get through this with relative ease. When visiting your surgeon, ask him how many robotic prostatectomies he has performed, and if he performs the surgery entirely himself. Good questions to know. I would always suggest that your surgeon has 5000 or more surgeries.
Mark's Prostate Cancer Experience : Thanks Mark, you truly have been a blessing to all men with prostate Cancer. I will be seeing my Robotic surgeon for consultation this afternoon here in California. Should I ask for an MRI prior to surgery? I'm an actor, so naturally this has devastated me, thoughts of, will I ever do a film again, particularly since I have been so busy lately. Yes, maintaining an erection and not having to wear 'Depends' the rest of my life is certainly important, but I have decided that the true priority is saving my life. Your 'Documention', if you will, has certainly inspired me and I thank you for that. I know it's been well over a year now since your operation so are all systems pretty much a go? best, Lance
Just found out i have prostate cancer the good news is it did"t spread outside the prostate so right now i am trying to decide which is better robotic or open surgery i ask the first surgeon do he perform robotic surgery he said no he rather used his hands instead i have found a few doctors who perform robotic so that is were i am at now also how long did you stay in the hospital
I had the surgery several years ago and honestly, the catheter wasn't much of an issue. It was a little uncomfortable the first day or two but I got used to it. Showering wasn't an issue. I removed the leg bag and left the tube hanging while in the shower. The worst part was the bladder spasms I experienced the last few days before catheter removal. I was told as your body heals, it is trying to reject the catheter. Very painful, couldn't wait to get it out.
joe Mazzone i have been told.i.got stage 3 prostate cancer but was told.Hifu is no good at this stage. Im currently.in turkey being seen in a very famous hospital.in istanbul called the Acibadem maslak building ( as they have many in different areas) they told me same as uk that prostectomy is best way and Hifu or any other focal tberapy is no good for tbis stage 3 cancer
My question to all of you who have had the surgery and then when you had the catheter removed...how painful was it to get the cath removed? Do they give you any numbing so you wont feel it or do they yank it out and you cross your eyes in pain? Lol
Mike, it is painless...you won't feel anything. It just slides out. The reason it doesnt slide out on its own is there a balloon inside keeping the other end in place. Once they deflate the balloon, the catheter slides right out.
helow mark im watchinh your video for a while . i just wanna ask coz my bf have prostate and he said its bigger thats why the doctor need to put a catheter . the doctor told him to go hospital after 2 weeks and now he said that he gonna keep the catheter for six weeks and go back hospital again .im confused if they need operation why wait too long ? how long you keep your catherter? and they put catheter after surgery or before surgery? i hope you reply .thank you and have a good day .
Hi! Mark My dad is at stage 1 prostate cancer.He had a bone scan and was told its negative in bones. At first the urologist was gun-ho at surgery but wanted my dad to get second opinion from oncologist and radiation.Today the urologist kinda flip-flopped on us stating we might want to try radiation because with surgery there's always a possibility that you might need radiation after surgery and he basically stated a bunch of cons for surgery,
+Debora Rocha Thanks for your note. You should know that once you have radiation for prostate cancer, surgery is NOT possible for future recurrences of prostate cancer. But, if you have surgery, and the prostate is removed, in the UNLIKELY event that some of the cancer remains, they can use radiation to eradicate it. This is the bottom line. If you father is in relatively good health, surgery (prostatectomy) is the only choice one should make, as I did last year. If your father is Stage 1, which I interpret to mean is contained within the prostate, tell him to have the surgery, remove the prostate, and get rid of the cancer 100%. These surgeries are almost routine these days, and the full removal of cancer is the norm. Don't feel like you cannot question the choices suggested by your urologist. I'd suggest that you give Dr David Samadi a call in NY. He will give you a free phone consultation.
@@prostatecancerexperience Mark, I just got the same procedure done on 10/18/2021and your videos were tremendously helpful in preparing me and everything has gone exactly as you have outlined, Thanks for posting , Richard L
Just shy of seven weeks now I had my prostate gland removed. To me it was not fun ! A week and a half of misery. As for the catheter, 10 days with it and a lot of blood when it came time to empty my bladder. The “cold” hearted doctor injected some sort of lubricant into me and without saying anything he pulled out the catheter in two segments and I yelled out each time! Darn did that hurt!wasn’t feeling good at all when I went in and didn’t feel better leaving.so weak but I did manage to see him wiping the blood off the floor and me afterwards. I know everything is different, but I pity the guy who follows my experience!
Finally someone with a positive outlook after radical prostatectomy. I am having my surgery in 2 weeks and I needed to hear someone positive which gives me hope for what I am about face. Thanks, Mark. Your smile made the difference for me.
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Thank you Mark. I am 56 and retired early so I can enjoy life. I have surgery in 3 days and my emotions are all over the place but it's nice to hear your journey for reassurance. I hope mine goes as well as yours. God Bless
Thanks for documenting this! I am 51 and my surgery is scheduled for 2 weeks time. I live in Ottawa Canada - not that that makes a difference but I do appreciate hearing from someone who has gone through this whole process - stay well!
How are you doing?x
Thanks for your honesty and humor. I'm going in, in a few weeks for the same surgery and every little bit of information helps. Ignorance is what makes things scary so kudos to you for providing these videos.
Just had mine a week ago. Catheter comes out tomorrow!!
And yes looking at the catheter is not a good time . But , but …. It’s a small price to pay!
Thank you thank you Mark!!
I watched your videos over and over again and decided to have the surgery and it save my life 🙏🙏🙏
Thanks Mark. I am going into hospital in 2 days to have my prostate removed. Thnaks for taking the time to share your experience. It certainly helps combat the severe fear of the unknown.
Thank you for this, @Mark. Keeping things in perspective, staying positive, and with the endgame of being cancer free the theme all of your videos has been very helpful for me throughout my recovery.
I had my surgery 6 weeks ago, Healing fine, just keep doing your kegels after you have the Catheter removed. Just follow Dr instructions and make sure you have a physical therapist help you along. It's all about getting your head in the game. 6weeks hardly any leakage. Thank you Mark you see truly blessed
i just had my catheter remove today do great so far
Mark I'm an English patient here in Portsmouth. I'm in day 2 post op, I love your demeanour and how upbeat you are, this actually mirrors my attitude since diagnosis. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience
Thank you for sharing your experience. Today I am 69 years old and 10 days away from surgery. I’m not worried at all and confident that I’ll be cured.
Thank you Mark I needed this. I’m on the fence on what I want to do here. Like you I never had a tube coming out of me meaning a catheter. I’m so scared right now so I’ll keep watching this video. I see a radiologist in a few days so after comparing notes with both radiation and surgery I’ll make my decision and step out on faith to save my life. This is by far the best video from someone who has experienced what I’m gonna maybe go through.
G'Day from Australia! I had my surgery last Friday (29 Sep 2023) and have my catheter out tomorrow. Everything you said is spot on. Hey guys, remember to keep your catheter bag below your bladder level - only important when you're sitting down, otherwise it can't drain and (I understand) it can start to really hurt.
Hi mark! I'm so thankful for this vid.. my father is in catheter right now and i was so worried that he might not recover... we're not in good terms right now but I'm still worried. i still want him to get healed and somehow God could change him. Thank you so much!! God bless you!
Mark, your presentation on your prostate experience was very well presented and interesting. I am also a survivor of prostate cancer however I opted for radiation. So far I've survived ( I'm 90 ! ) I look forward to future podcasts. Good luck and keep healthy.
Vincent, you are the poster child
Thank you - I am still somewhat in shock at my diagnosis and you have really helped me.
I found out last week and I felt that it was so unreal. I have watched a ton of RUclips videos and understand the path we will have to walk but I feel more positive. I am sure I will be nervous on the day but it is the road to recovery and health. Anyway all my hopes for your future. We have this.
Excellent video. I had the same surgery 5 days ago and your description of everything is spot on. Thank you for posting. Good luck
I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago and my surgery is scheduled for 5 weeks from now. I've been doing a lot of research online and I came upon this channel a week ago and it has been a great resource. It doesn't have to be all technical and scientific to be useful. Learning about the actual experience is probably more useful than anything else and this video series certainly achieves that.
I'm not really worried about the whole process or even for the future. I have to say though, the catheter experience and the subsequent incontinence does have me uneasy. This particular video went a long way towards making me feel more at ease. I'm sure I'll be uneasy again right after the surgery, but as Mark said, when you consider the prognosis, you can live with it.
I'll be watching the rest of the series leading up to my surgery. Thanks for putting this together, Mark.
The whole process is something you can get through. The worry before hand is the worst part.
@@prostatecancerexperience I’m 9 days, post-surgery. All is well so far. The catheter comes out tomorrow. That has been the worst part, though nothing anyone can’t handle. Just a daily nuisance.
Thanks Mark just starting my journey surgery yesterday and home now
This is a great thing, to let people know the reality of what happens.
As a retired pastor, I went on a pastoral retreat a week after I was decatheterised, and found a couple of the other men were very curious about the procedure, which made me realise that there was a place for information, and not just for people who were facing imminent surgery. I realise that, while both my father and my brother had prostatectomies, we didn't discuss the details.
I had a prostatectomy 2 months ago, and I had been thinking that perhaps I should organise some kind of information event for men facing prostatectomies. For example, one of the other men at our church has a slow-growing cancer so at present isn't facing cancer, but that will change. I could achieve the same by referring people to your channel.
One thing I found was that, by the final couple of days of living with the catheter, walking had become quite exquisitely painful, as I hadn't been given any kind of desensitising gel.
I am a widower and stayed with my daughter post surgery. She decided to take me out for coffee for a break from incarceration in her back bedroom (she's an extrovert, so she notices that kind of thing before I do!) I had to cross a quiet street to get to the shop, and really doubted that I would make it.
Other than having a painfully burning sensation when they gave me a potassium infusion in hospital, that was the worst part of the whole process, though. It was relieved as soon as the tube was taken out.
Thanks for sharing I will be doing this same surgery at 46 years old, so soon I will be meeting with the surgeon this month
Great job Mark. I like your perspective. The catheter is what I’ve been dreading the most in my upcoming removal.
Catheter removal is not uncomfortable. Especially if the person is experienced. I did not even notice it. I had to have one removed three times. I had a catheter for 42 days, so changed for hygiene reasons.
Thanks Mark for your video series. I'm getting my surgery in two weeks. Not looking forward to going tubing for a whole week but your videos have made me feel a lot better. Thanks again.
Many thanks for taking the time to do this series! Very helpful and reassuring.
thanku great video, very reassuring-going in for surgery in 2 days
Great explanation. Thank you.
Thanks Mark. Soothing. Removed my catheter just about two weeks ago. Your descriptions are quite apt. Good man. 👍
Great video Mark, I'm 48 hours post da Vinci prostatectomy.... I've had small clots of blood in the bag, and it is reassuring to hear this is normal... Thanks
This was just what I needed to see Mark, thank you, never thought I'd smile about what to expect next week! 🙂
Good luck Richard!
I've been using a non-reusable one for about a year now. My operation has been delayed many times due to Covin 19, which I never had. The VA hospital needed the beds. A nurse and a medical school student told me how to insert it. The catheter was not inserted. They told me that I would figure that out by myself. I need to use one about five times a day. I use a lot of Surgie lube. When I insert it, especially the first few times, I felt some pain and a little stinging. Getting it past my swollen prostate was very uncomfortable for a few days. I could feel it entering and exiting that area with discomfort, but I got used to that feeling. When it hits that area, you need to insert and remove it very slowly, which helps it to cause less discomfort. I follow these steps: 1. Place a clean paper towel next to your sink. 2: Raise the toilet seat, and wash your hands. 3: Remove the catheter by folding the end of the cover and pulling it out of the package. 4: Have the cap of the lube open before you start the procedure and place the catheter on the clean paper towel. Lube it freely and stand over the toilet and insert it slowly. 5: When the urine has stopped flowing, your bladder will constrict, which hurts somewhat 6: Remove the catheter slowly, and once it passes the prostate, the rest of the removal is easy with minimal discomfort. The more you use a catheter, the less it will bother you. For me, it's about 10 minutes. Following this procedure should help you to avoid getting a UTI.
Your info very helpful . I asked my urologist about if anyone services their own catheter and they said no . Every time I can’t pee I have to wait in hospital emergency room for 3 hours last Sunday . Very painful holding in but it wouldn’t come out. I’m gonna buy some from eBay and do myself next time . Thanks again for info. Thanks for serving .
You have a bad situation and an even worst urologist. I'm being treated by a VA Urologist who not only recommended I use a catheter when needed but also showed me the proper way to use one. Unless there is something special about your condition, I would recommend you find a real Urologist. Utilizing a catheter is safe and easy though sometimes a little painful, but the result is well worth it.@@tomcase8582
I am getting ready to turn 66 and will have the surgery soon...appreciate your insight, but guess it is normal that I have alot of fears...never had surgery or ever stayed in hospital, so have many concerns, but the fear of the cancer is more concerning....again thanks for your series and I hope I can handle it as well as you have
My catheter came out yesterday. So far so good.
Thanks Mark you made this easy for me love you my brother !
Great info - I'm due to get the op on Saturday and that's a reassuring chat from someone on the other end of the surgeon's swiss knife!
I have been diagnosed with PC and will have my consultation this Friday 8/19/22 at Penn to determine the date to have surgery. Thank you for shari g this. My biggest fear is exactly this... the dreaded catheter
I'm going to show him your videos tomorrow. Ty! great information and especially for the upbeat attitude is a plus!
Yes for me it was uncomfortable I had the nerve block & now this is day 2 without the catheter a little leakage right now , but healing nicely myself & had a great surgeon!
I had a catheter in for 10 weeks on diagnosis. I hadn't slept so well for years. No constant trips to the toilet or constantly waking up at night. My snags started when they eventually took it out. After having been on holiday for 10 weeks my bladder was very reluctant to get back off the bench. Getting there slowly.
Mark, Thank you for this series of videos.
Hey Mark, I'm 12 days post surgery. I get the catheter out in 5 more days , can't wait. Thx for sharing your journey it's helped alot.
What took so long? Usually it’s 7-10 days
@@mrbb33 well it was actually 17 days. It was supposed to be 14 but the doc was sick so I had to wait an extra 3. Glad it's out !
@@steve196134 that’s way too long!
How did u survive that long?
@@mrbb33 it wasn't ez. Lol
I go in tomorrow to have the catheter removed. Hasn't really bothered me until last night when it was irritating the last 2 - 3 inches. Took a hydrocodone and woke this am feeling fine. Really, the constipation from the nerve block was hardest to deal with. No need to get "out and around", so have not switched to the leg bag. Have a small "bypass"leakage around the cath (although it drains fine) so have taken to wearing the adult pull-up disposable diapers and will probably continue them until the kegals have retrained my spincters. For USA Medicare patients, most Advantage programs include many continence products such as pads, shields, diapers, underpads.
had one after the turp procedure, it was brutal. COULDN'T walk hardly. the pain brought me to my knees!
Thanks so much for making these videos! I was just diagnosed w/ stage 2 prostate cancer.
joe l
joe p
Thank you...excellent video.
So far so good!!! Follow up in December but so far PSA is non detect! How are you making out? And thanks again!!!
Thanks you so much for your videos. I'm 66 years old, had elevated PSA so they did a biopsy, found cancer in one area...Gleason score of 6. Right now I'm talking to radiologist, and surgeon...but right but am taking the "Active Surveillance" path. Clark Howard also has prostate cancer and has been monitoring it...might be good for people to also check his information. Once again thank you so much for your info.
Thank You! for your videos deff has helped me understand and educate my father
+Debora Rocha Thank you. If you need other info, or would like me to speak to your father please let me know.
Thank you Mark for the videos. My husband was just diagnosed with prostate cancer so these videos help. Question: did you have to take any medication after you came home? He’s ready to get it over with 🙏😇✅
Just got out of surgery on Monday. It’s Wednesday. Your reaction is happening to me. Thanks for the video.
I am at the beginning of day 4 after surgery. Your information is spot on and extremely beneficial. They have helped me so much during this process. TY.
I had to have one in me which was there for 2 months, 2 years after you. I then had the T.U.R.P.S operation, so I still have my prostate but I have a PSA blood test every 6 months to make sure the cancer is not coming back.
Just had my procedure with the Davinchi system, but all of your excellent you never mention antibiotics as part of the remedy. Was also wondering if it’s normal to have some level of sour in my inner working area?Thanks.
Before I had my prostate cancer diagnosis, I was rushed to the hospital because of a bladder obstruction (which ultimately was due to the prostate cancer) & had to have a catheter put in to drain the fluid (5000ml & 35 lbs drained). Because of the urologist I had at the time, I ended up having to live with the catheter for over 30 days (in between he had performed the biopsy & TURP at the same time, yet left the catheter in) until just after the diagnosis was given to me (after the catheter was removed, I still couldn’t pee on my own, yes, even after the TURP-which this urologist did a crap job on) so I had to self catheter myself any time I needed to pee. We fired that urologist & found a fantastic urologist to work with & during the discussion for the prostate removal surgery, he said my life would be changed for a week or so after because of the catheter. I chuckled and said, well, I’m an old pro at that & reminded him of my 30 days with it from the bumbler urologist. The new urologist performed a perfect TURP soon after & I was peeing like a champ. Started hormone therapy in March & had the prostate removal surgery performed just about 2 weeks ago. When the nurse came in to give me the instructions on how to live with the catheter I just smiled and told her about my 30 days with it so she laughed and said, well then, nevermind.
Even with knowing how to use it and live with it, it was frustrating due to the bladder spasms & urge to urinate, along with some leakage, but I had a shorter time with it this go around and remember the bladder spasms subsided after week 2 last time. So for guys going through this, know it is a temporary situation & the day bag is a great way of staying active while you wait for it to be removed.
I hope you get this comment. Is currently 2024. I have a difficult time peeing at night! Hard to start in not all of it comes out. I urinate at least six times per night! And I'm wondering will this cause a major problem if I do any procedure! Proton therapy or prostectomy.
@@ricknowak4582 any procedure involving the prostate, which is the culprit behind many problems with men and urinary issues, will help. Although, I haven’t had a prostate in 5 years, I still am up to pee a few times a night as the prostate gland would assist the bladder sphincter in keeping the urge to go at a minimum until the bladder was too full to ignore. If you are having difficulty peeing, I would ask your urologist about the TURP so you’ll be able to eliminate so much better. This procedure was done for me months before they finally removed the prostate and it was so nice to have a strong stream again that emptied the bladder.
Had mine months ago. Still leaking. But improving, so be patient. The reality is you might get frustrated, but remember it's lifesaving and you're not alone
Great content, thank you very much!!!
Thank you
Mark, thank you for your guidance and advice. It gave me a great help and courage to understand to what will I experience to this major part of my life.. This is my fifth day after my operation.
Hi I’m done surgery,tomorrow I’ll leave hospital what’s the best food to eat .
Thank you!!!
Can I say you're a very good looking man. I watch your videos my man had a prostate surgery almost a month ago see how things goes from here I like your post by the way.
After your catheter removed how was the Incontinence. Mine was removed this morning and I think it leaks a lot! I sit watching rcmp for a while then I get up to get to the bathroom and after about 15 steps it leaks a lot that I have had to change the pAds almost every time???
What was it like when they removed the catheter???
Most catheters stay in for 1 week. Mine had to stay in 4 weeks. It was miserable. I ended up slower than average in recovery. I am now 6 months post surgery.
Mine had advanced locally and was a little aggressive so I had 6 months of hormone therapy and 33 sessions of radiation.
Hi Mark, Thanks for your videos. I'm in day 9 after the DA Vinci op. Doing fine but find the bladder 'spasms' really uncomfortable. What did you do for this? Is there any way to lessen it?
Chris, I had pills to help combat bladder spasms, and I used them for about a week. The spasms should subside for more people, so just hang in there.
I feel for ya dude . Catheters are very uncomfortable . I hope everything’s good now .
would have been valuable to see how you fitted catheter to leg horizontally. very helpful video though
My first catheter I had in the spring of 2020 because of my swollen prostrate . Because of Covid. So I couldn’t have any surgery. So I had the catheter for 2 1/2 mos. During his time I painted the ceilings of my house. So I got paint specks on my hose. I would just hang the big bag on my pocket. I never had to get up at night to pee . But by morning I was afraid the bag may burst! Scary stuff. I would develop A UTI in about 15days. That hurt! And the pee looked like pink milk! After the hospital opened up I had surgery. In June of 2020. But they found prostrate cancer so I had it removed 2 months ago. So now I onl get up 2 times a night. But I am getting better . For me it’s a long road. We’ll it’s only been 2 months.
Hi Mark and thanks for sharing your experience. Today it us my 4th day after removal of the catheter. I am concerned because my urine string is thin some times interrupted with drops, I push and the string does not change the caliber. I was thinking to call the surgeon tomorrow. I wanter to ask since your catheter was removed you had a strong thick string , I mean normal like before surgery?
After my prostatectomy my catheter stayed in for two weeks. When it was as removed I started to have terrible pain because I was unable to urinate. The catheter was reinserted for another two weeks. After that I was fine.
Thank you for your time and dedication to chronicle your experiences. My surgery is scheduled for 11/18/16, and your videos are very helpful.
Ed, you will get through this easier than you think. Just stay positive, and focus on why you are doing this. This is what you need to do to ensure a full and complete life ahead, without the burden of cancer in it. If you have specific questions, I am happy to help to answer them.
+Ed Curry Please feel free to join my new Facebook private group, to discuss prostate cancer and related issues: facebook.com/groups/104156783410077/
Thank you Mark.
Great job
How do you bathe after surgery and with catheter for 10 days?
Thank you for your very helpful post-op observations.
Hi Mark. Did u go back afyer a week for them to take out catherter and what ia the proposed after care ie what more t ests u need to do and how often tp check
Dont know if you still check in here, but you didnt say anything about how you slept with a catheter , and if there was any problems with laying on the tube, im having an Aquablation procedure soon,
Hi Mark Thank you for all the informative intel.
My question to you is, when were you able to take shower from day 1??
I had a catheter after a colon resection 3 years ago. After a week I removed the catheter myself at home (instructions provided by a nurse). After you release the water in bulb the catheter slides out on its own very slowly.
May seem odd but I found the sensation arousing.
helow mark have a good day .if you dont mind do you have catheter after surgery or before?
Hi Mark,
A different catheter approach is the suprapubic catheter, which is what I received 2 days ago. It’s even MORE bizarre than a urethral catheter because it sticks into your abdomen above the penis. I only got the courage to look at it last night when I changed the dressing. A catheter coming out of my penis was removed the day after surgery. Don’t know if this is a new approach to prostatectomy. I think the benefit is that there is almost no urgency to urinate with the suprapubic setup. I’ll test my readiness to pee normally by plugging the catheter myself after one week, and then having the catheter removed by my surgeon the next day if all works well.
Learning what is to come after this surgical procedure, it is probably best not for men to see this video or any other video about what happens afterwards.
Catheters, pee bags, and no doubt, a lot of pain.
I can’t think of much worse that what has been described here.
What about the possibility of infections?
I have really enjoyed your videos! I am debating surgery versus radiation. I have a Gleason grade 7 on two of 12 samples from biopsy. What made you choose surgery versus radiation. Also do you know of a website that one can use to research urologists experience with robotic surgery?
I also had a 7 Gleason. I also have an enlarged prostate. I have had a catheter for 2 weeks. Going to have it for 3 more weeks.
Try natural cures...
Get the surgery and if there is any cancer left then radiation. Learn to do kegels before surgery to help with leakage after surgery. I gone through both surgery and radiation. Just go with the flow and it is over before you know it.
Hi Mark
I may end up having to have my prostate removed soon. This catheter subject is freaking me out a bit. You didn’t talk about what the pain level was when they removed the catheter. I’m thinking on a scale of 1-10, it would have to be a 10! This catheter subject is the scariest part of it. Also did you have to have chemo treatments after your surgery?
I’m with you. Just the fact this thing going through my penis and I’m so sensitive there is freaking me out for I never had one in me. I’m praying hard about this.
Hello Mark thank you for your video it is informative,
i have a question
i had a catheter inserted due to urine restriction,
did you had any pain on top of your penis or inside at all ,
i’m on my second day but i can feel bit of pain when i sit in my car, please advise me.
Thank you
Abdul
from London
I had my rectum removed and the urologist surgeon that my surgeon called in had found a hole in my bladder so they had to fix it and so I had a catheter for 2 weeks and I with I would've had a numbing jelly I could put around my penis to numb some of the discomfort
Hi Mark, on December 23 2016 I was told I have prostate cancer. I first consulted with a radiologist, which frankly was a bit frightening, concerning all the possible side effects. I will be consulting with the Robotic surgeon tomorrow. My Gleason scores were were all 6 with one 7. When I asked my Doctor if the cancer may have spread outside the prostate his response was, I doubt it as your PSA is 4.6 which is fairly low. To ensure that your cancer was contained within your prostate, did your Doctor recommend a MRI or CT scan prior to surgery? For me it would only make sense to avoid unnecessary surgery if in fact it had spread to my bones.
Thanks for sharing your experience, it has been very helpful in determining the type of procedure I may take. BTW, you and I look about the same age and in good health,
best, Lance
Lance, thanks for your question. Typically, with Gleason scores of 6 and 7, and with a PSA of 4.6, the odds are GREATLY in your favor that the cancer is limited to your prostate. You should know that prostate cancer is extremely slow moving, and very rarely, at this early state is found outside the cancer. In that respect, prostate cancer is considered one of the most treatable and most curable. The best way for peace of mind, and to maximize your chances of being cancer free for life, is to have the surgery. I will be happy to follow up further, and go into all the reasons why, but just know that these prostate cancer surgeries are almost routine at this point. Don't get overly stressed over this, as you are in the company of many other men who get through this with relative ease. When visiting your surgeon, ask him how many robotic prostatectomies he has performed, and if he performs the surgery entirely himself. Good questions to know. I would always suggest that your surgeon has 5000 or more surgeries.
Mark's Prostate Cancer Experience : Thanks Mark, you truly have been a blessing to all men with prostate Cancer. I will be seeing my Robotic surgeon for consultation this afternoon here in California. Should I ask for an MRI prior to surgery?
I'm an actor, so naturally this has devastated me, thoughts of, will I ever do a film again, particularly since I have been so busy lately.
Yes, maintaining an erection and not having to wear 'Depends' the rest of my life is certainly important, but I have decided that the true priority is saving my life. Your 'Documention', if you will, has certainly inspired me and I thank you for that.
I know it's been well over a year now since your operation so are all systems pretty much a go?
best,
Lance
Just found out i have prostate cancer the good news is it did"t spread outside the prostate so right now i am trying to decide which is better robotic or open surgery i ask the first surgeon do he perform robotic surgery he said no he rather used his hands instead i have found a few doctors who perform robotic so that is were i am at now also how long did you stay in the hospital
Try natural cures...
Dude I need help I have a cathatar in
For 2 weeks!
I have prostate cancer and an enlarged prostate. The enlarged prostate is causing me all the problems had to get a catheter put in.
I had the surgery several years ago and honestly, the catheter wasn't much of an issue. It was a little uncomfortable the first day or two but I got used to it. Showering wasn't an issue. I removed the leg bag and left the tube hanging while in the shower. The worst part was the bladder spasms I experienced the last few days before catheter removal. I was told as your body heals, it is trying to reject the catheter. Very painful, couldn't wait to get it out.
Did u consider HIFU?
joe Mazzone i have been told.i.got stage 3 prostate cancer but was told.Hifu is no good at this stage. Im currently.in turkey being seen in a very famous hospital.in istanbul called the Acibadem maslak building ( as they have many in different areas) they told me same as uk that prostectomy is best way and Hifu or any other focal tberapy is no good for tbis stage 3 cancer
I hate, hate, hate my catheter. Supposed to come out tomorrow, can't be soon enough.
My question to all of you who have had the surgery and then when you had the catheter removed...how painful was it to get the cath removed?
Do they give you any numbing so you wont feel it or do they yank it out and you cross your eyes in pain? Lol
Mike, it is painless...you won't feel anything. It just slides out. The reason it doesnt slide out on its own is there a balloon inside keeping the other end in place. Once they deflate the balloon, the catheter slides right out.
@themarkzilbert hopefully getting mine out 7/24 I've had it in 15 days and I'm ready for this thing to come out.
helow mark im watchinh your video for a while . i just wanna ask coz my bf have prostate and he said its bigger thats why the doctor need to put a catheter . the doctor told him to go hospital after 2 weeks and now he said that he gonna keep the catheter for six weeks and go back hospital again .im confused if they need operation why wait too long ? how long you keep your catherter? and they put catheter after surgery or before surgery? i hope you reply .thank you and have a good day .
46 and surgery soon. This stuff is not my favorite.
Hi! Mark
My dad is at stage 1 prostate cancer.He had a bone scan and was told its negative in bones. At first the urologist was gun-ho at surgery but wanted my dad to get second opinion from oncologist and radiation.Today the urologist kinda flip-flopped on us stating we might want to try radiation because with surgery there's always a possibility that you might need radiation after surgery and he basically stated a bunch of cons for surgery,
+Debora Rocha Thanks for your note. You should know that once you have radiation for prostate cancer, surgery is NOT possible for future recurrences of prostate cancer. But, if you have surgery, and the prostate is removed, in the UNLIKELY event that some of the cancer remains, they can use radiation to eradicate it. This is the bottom line. If you father is in relatively good health, surgery (prostatectomy) is the only choice one should make, as I did last year. If your father is Stage 1, which I interpret to mean is contained within the prostate, tell him to have the surgery, remove the prostate, and get rid of the cancer 100%. These surgeries are almost routine these days, and the full removal of cancer is the norm. Don't feel like you cannot question the choices suggested by your urologist. I'd suggest that you give Dr David Samadi a call in NY. He will give you a free phone consultation.
Try natural cures
@@prostatecancerexperience Great advice! This is what my Johns Hopkins Doctors explained to me.
@@prostatecancerexperience Mark, I just got the same procedure done on 10/18/2021and your videos were tremendously helpful in preparing me and everything has gone exactly as you have outlined, Thanks for posting , Richard L
Just shy of seven weeks now I had my prostate gland removed. To me it was not fun ! A week and a half of misery. As for the catheter, 10 days with it and a lot of blood when it came time to empty my bladder. The “cold” hearted doctor injected some sort of lubricant into me and without saying anything he pulled out the catheter in two segments and I yelled out each time! Darn did that hurt!wasn’t feeling good at all when I went in and didn’t feel better leaving.so weak but I did manage to see him wiping the blood off the floor and me afterwards. I know everything is different, but I pity the guy who follows my experience!
Hahaha..."look how they massacred my boy..."
Other than loosing sexual function is the only thing that's terrible.
All talk and no action, I didn't learn diddly