What Are The Risks/Side Effects Of Salvage Radiation?

Matthew Cooney, M.D., University Hospitals

ByABC News
November 19, 2008, 12:19 PM

Jan. 01, 2009 -- Question: What are the risks/side effects of salvage radiation?

Answer: The good news about radiation is that our technology has advanced where we can really minimize our side effects and minimize toxicities of radiation after surgery. But you still have some risks related to this procedure. These risks can include affecting your urinary function, your bowel function, or putting you at a much higher risk for erectile dysfunction, or impotence, from radiation after a surgical removal of the prostate.