Specialist in Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy with SpaceOAR Hydrogel

If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and are concerned about accidental damage to the rectum that can be a side effect of radiation therapy, the use of a SpaceOAR Hydrogel rectal spacer can alleviate your concerns. Prostate cancer and radiation therapy specialist Dr. Mark Allen can help you determine if SpaceOAR Hydrogel can eliminate or reduce damage to your rectum and possibly enhance radiation treatment to the prostate by better targeting the cancer.

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972-612-8037

SpaceOAR® Hydrogel Rectal Spacer

SpaceOAR® Hydrogel is a temporary injectable gel spacer placed between the prostate and the rectum that reduces damage to the rectum caused by radiation treatment.  Patients in the Plano, Dallas and Frisco, Texas area undergoing radiotherapy can receive this treatment by urologist Dr. Mark Allen.  SpaceOAR® is injected before the start of radiation treatment and placed between the prostate and the rectum. This injection acts as a spacer, limiting the amount of radiation exposure to the rectum.  Placement of SpaceOAR® Hydrogel can be done as an outpatient procedure when a patient is awake or asleep under general anesthesia.

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Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Specialist

Are you experiencing unwanted symptoms due to menopause and andropause? The goal of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is to alleviate the unwanted symptoms of menopause and andropause by reestablishing a hormone balance in men and women. Bio-identical hormone replacement specialist, Dr. Mark Allen provides diagnosis and treatment options for patients in Plano who are suffering from unwanted menopause or andropause symptoms. Contact Dr. Allen’s team today!

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972-612-8037

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Enlarged Prostate Treatment Specialist

Are you experiencing a weak or slow urine flow with the frequent urge to urinate? If so, you may have an enlarged prostate. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), otherwise known as an enlarged prostate, is caused when prostate cells multiply gradually and cause an enlargement that places pressure on the urethra. Enlarged prostate treatment specialist, Dr. Mark Allen provides diagnosis and both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for patients in Plano who are suffering from an enlarged prostate. Contact Dr. Allen’s team today!

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972-612-8037

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An Overview of Robotic Prostatectomy Risks

“Prostate cancer treatment has made great strides in the last decade with the introduction of the robotic prostatectomy.  Impotence and incontinence risks may be reduced by prostatectomies that are performed by robotic surgery,” says Dallas urologist Dr. Mark Allen.

There are numerous prostate cancer treatment options available today to patients in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area. If surgical removal of the prostate gland is one of these, one recommendation is a robotic prostatectomy. Impotence and urinary incontinence are common concerns most men face when considering a radical prostatectomy.  The robotic technology, however, has made great strides in recent years to reduce these risks.

If you are considering this approach to treat your cancer, it is important to understand all of the facts. Dr. Mark Allen, a Dallas urologist, answers some of the most common questions regarding this procedure. He also discusses robotic prostatectomy impotence risks, as well as urinary incontinence concerns.

What is Robotic-Assisted Surgery for Prostate Cancer Treatment?

This is a minimally invasive procedure that has been available for a few years now in Dallas. Urologists use this approach to remove all or part of the cancerous prostate gland through a robotic-assisted technology. It accomplishes the necessary internal repairs while leaving the body and organ surfaces as natural as possible. During surgery, the surgeon sits a few feet away from the patient at a console. Here, he controls the computerized movements of the robotic arms. A small camera and specialized instruments are mounted on the robotic arms. These are inserted through keyhole incisions into the patient’s abdomen. Once the surgeon obtains a visual of the inside of the abdomen, he works to remove the cancerous gland.

How Safe is Robotic Prostatectomy?

Robotic surgery dramatically enhances visualization, precision, control and dexterity. It also has been shown to overcome the limitations of traditional laparoscopic technology that Dallas urologists historically use. The da Vinci Robotic Surgical System is FDA approved and is vigorously tested to ensure safety and quality control.

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery

As the surgeon moves his hands, wrists and fingers, the technology translates the motions into precise micro-movements that allow greater precision.  This is especially important as these precise movements help to spare nearby nerves that control urinary continence and sexual function.  Evidence-based benefits for this procedure include less scarring and bleeding, less pain, faster recoveries, and a quicker return to activities. Through a robotic prostatectomy, impotence and urinary incontinence risks are also decreased.

Robotic Prostatectomy Side Effects

During prostate cancer treatment, whether it is a laparoscopic prostatectomy, or a robotic prostatectomy, impotence and incontinence are concerns.  However, the severity of these side effects will vary.

Impotence is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection that is suitable for sexual intercourse. During a robotic prostatectomy, impotence is a risk because the nerve bundles responsible for achieving an erection may be removed. A nerve-sparing procedure, therefore, may also be performed.  This is a technique that Dallas urologist, Dr. Mark Allen performs at the same time as the prostate removal.  He performs this by carefully preserving the neurovascular nerve bundles that surround the prostate.  This is done in hopes of the patient being able to maintain sexual function.  This procedure is successful in a large percentage of prostate cancer treatment cases.  Patients not able to regain sexual function after two years of surgery may be candidates for erectile dysfunction treatment.  There are new procedures available that have proven to be very successful for patients seeking erectile function restoration.

Urinary incontinence is the inability to hold or control one’s urine. Control of urinary function is made possible by two muscles, one of these muscles resides in the prostate.  If the prostate is removed during surgery, the urethra is surgically reconnected to the bladder and will lead to a certain degree of incontinence during the recovery period. Once the remaining muscle regains strength, urinary control is can often restored.  However, in some patients, urinary incontinence will be an ongoing problem.  There are incontinence treatment procedures available that have proven to be effective options following a prostatectomy for prostate cancer treatment.

Robotic Prostatectomy Outcomes

Recent studies comparing the robotic approach to the laparoscopic approach indicate similar success rates in controlling the cancer. Both techniques are effective prostate cancer treatment options. Studies, however, suggest that robot-assisted prostate removal may allow for earlier return of continence and sexual function.  Recovery periods are also noted to be easier and quicker for the patient.

To learn more, visit:  Dallas Urologist, Dr. Mark Allen, Prostate Cancer Treatment

For additional resources on robotic prostatectomy as a prostate cancer treatment, please contact the office of Dr. Mark Allen, urologist serving the communities of Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas.

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Some men will experience hormonal problems that may relate to erectile dysfunction. This is known as “low T” or low testosterone. Testosterone is the male hormone that deciphers whether a fetus will have the reproductive organs of a male or female, and it essentially builds the male reproductive organs. Testosterone is released in large amounts in the body of a boy during his pubescent years, and provides him the ability to build muscle, deepen his voice and creates his sexual desire. As men naturally age, testosterone levels drop and may cause erectile dysfunction, commonly linking erectile dysfunction and age. Dr. Mark Allen, urology specialist serving the greater Plano, Dallas, Frisco and Richardson, Texas area, offers hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction as an ED treatment option.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, otherwise known as ED or impotence, is classified as the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction and age are commonly linked because of hormone loss as a man ages.

Common causes of ED include:

• Physical factors such as kidney disease, diabetes, vascular disease and chronic alcoholism
• Chemical factors such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications and antihistamines
• Psychological factors such as stress, guilt, depression and anxiety

Erectile Dysfunction and Age

After a male reaches 40 years of age, his testosterone naturally begins to decrease by about 3% a year. This anatomical change is inevitable, and does not affect a man’s physique or lifestyle. An even larger loss of testosterone in men, however, will cause undesirable side effects. In some cases, impotence can be one of these side effects.

Even though erectile dysfunction and age are associated, certain men experience ED as an underlying complication of prescription medications (chemical factors) or health condition.

How does Hormone Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction Work
as an ED Treatment?

Testosterone can be restored to a therapeutic level with hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction, but should only be taken if patients are tested and these tests confirm a deficiency. One such therapy is the insertion of testosterone pellets. These small, compressed, Tic-Tac sized pellets are injected under the skin (most often in the buttock just below the waistline). It is a simple procedure and leaves minimal scarring. The dose varies according to blood levels and other factors. Most patients will see improvement in their symptoms within a few short weeks.

For more resources on erectile dysfunction and ED treatment, or to determine if you are a candidate for hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction, please contact Dr. Mark Allen, urology specialist in the Plano, Dallas, Frisco and Richardson, Texas communities.

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) can limit a patient’s intimacy and impact the relationship with their partner. The good news – there are a number of ED treatments available to patients in the  Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area. Dr. Mark Allen, urologist, is highly experienced in diagnosing causes of ED and offers the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant as a penis implant for erectile dysfunction.

What is ED (Erectile Dysfunction)?

Erectile dysfunction, often referred to as ED, is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction used to be known more widely as ‘impotence’ before the causes of ED became better understood and successful ED treatments came into use.

What are the Causes of ED?

ED occurs when blood flow to the penis is limited or nerves are damaged. The causes of ED include diabetes, heart disease, prostate cancer treatment, depression, anxiety and the side effects of certain medications. Stress, lack of sleep, smoking and excess drinking can also cause ED.

ED Treatment with the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant

The AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant is perhaps the most advanced penis pump on the market today and is used in the most chronic cases of erectile dysfunction. This intricate ED treatment option provides a natural appearing erection and greater flaccidity compared to the 2-piece or malleable implants. Manufactured as a 3-piece inflatable prosthesis, it is available to patients in a variety of models and sizes for a custom fit. Each consists of a reservoir implanted in the abdomen, a pump placed in the scrotum and a pair of cylinders implanted in the penis. The entire device is totally concealed within the body.

The AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant is ideal for a man with good mental and physical dexterity who wants a natural looking erection—and a more natural flaccid state. It does provide more benefits than other AMS models.

Some of the advantages and disadvantages of this device are listed below:

Advantages of the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant

• Acts and feels like a natural erection
• Expands the girth of the penis
• More firm and full than 1- or 2-piece implants
• Feels softer and more flaccid when deflated than 1- or 2-piece implants
• Totally concealed within the body

Disadvantages of the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant

• Requires some manual dexterity
• Possibility of leakage or malfunction
• Possibility of unintentional erections

As with any penile implant device, the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant should be discussed with Dr. Allen and a thorough review of the advantages and disadvantages considered. Once this implant is surgically placed within the penis, Dr. Allen will consult and coach the patient on how to function everyday with this device, and how to use it properly for sexual intercourse.

For additional resources on penis implants for erectile dysfunction, or for more information on ED treatment with the AMS 700 Inflatable Penile Implant, please contact the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas urology office of Dr. Mark Allen.

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Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is characterized as the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Patients in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area suffering from an occasional erection complication should not be concerned, but if it develops into an ongoing complication, patients are encouraged to contact an urologist to determine the correct ED treatment. Dr. Mark Allen offers the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant, a penis implant for erectile dysfunction, for patients affected by chronic ED.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the persistent inability to achieve or maintain penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. ED is not just a medical issue – it can deeply affect relationships and limit intimacy, as well as affect a patient’s self-esteem.

While there are real physical and psychological reasons for ED, there’s no single cause. Common causes of ED include:

• Physical factors such as kidney disease, diabetes, vascular disease and chronic alcoholism
• Chemical factors such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications and antihistamines
• Psychological factors such as stress, guilt, depression and anxiety

How is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?

Each diagnosis Dr. Allen makes is unique and patient-specific to the problems and needs of the individual patient. Dr. Allen is able to do this by gathering information from a series of places, such as a patient medical review, physical examination and laboratory tests. The combination of these three items will help him diagnose ED and determine the proper ED treatment.

AMS Ambicor Penile Implant as a Penis Implant for Erectile Dysfunction

Depending on a man’s lifestyle and degree of impotence, each surgical device should be evaluated and considered carefully. An ED treatment option for men with chronic erectile dysfunction and ongoing impotence is the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant. This device is for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) that are seeking a permanent, yet satisfying solution to their condition. Ambicor is ideal for men with good dexterity who want an easier to operate inflatable device.

This penile implant is a uniquely designed two-piece inflatable prosthesis consisting of a pair of cylinders implanted in the penis, and a single pump bulb implanted in the scrotum. A patient can simply squeeze the pump to inflate and bend the penis to deflate the prosthesis.

Once this implant is surgically placed within the penis, Dr. Allen will consult and coach the patient on how to function everyday with this device, and how to use it properly for sexual intercourse.

As with any penile implant device, the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant has its list of advantages and disadvantages that must be considered by each patient:

Advantages of the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant

• Totally hidden and concealed within the body
• Simple to use
• Fast and simple one-step deflation
• Natural flaccidity compared to non-inflatable implant

Disadvantages of the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant

• Requires some manual dexterity
• Possibility of leakage or malfunction
• Flaccidity not as natural as 3-piece device

For additional information on erectile dysfunction (ED), or to determine if the AMS Ambicor Penile Implant is the correct penis implant for erectile dysfunction, please contact Dr. Mark Allen, urologist in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area.

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Erectile dysfunction, commonly referred to as ED, is an unwanted health condition experienced by countless men in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area. ED can range from the total inability to achieve an erection to a tendency to sustain an erection for a brief time. Causes of ED vary from patient to patient, with no single cause. Dr. Mark Allen often prescribes the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant, a penis implant for erectile dysfunction, in patients with ongoing erectile dysfunction so they can regain their intimacy and self-esteem.

Common Causes of ED (Erectile Dysfunction)

While there are real physical and psychological reasons for ED, there’s no single cause. Common causes of ED include:

• Physical factors such as kidney disease, diabetes, vascular disease and chronic alcoholism
• Chemical factors such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications and antihistamines
• Psychological factors such as stress, guilt, depression and anxiety

Erectile Dysfunction and Age

It is commonly understood the incidence of erectile dysfunction increases with age. 5% of 40 year old men and between 15-25% of 65 year old men experience erectile dysfunction. In the older generations, erectile dysfunction usually has a physical reason, such as disease, injury or side effects of prescription medications. Also, any disorders that may cause nerve damage or impairs blood circulation have been known to cause erectile dysfunction.

Yet, erectile dysfunction and age do not have to be connected in all men. Erectile dysfunction is treatable at any age and numerous men who have sought ED treatment are returning to their normal sexual activity because of successful treatment.

AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant as a Penis Implant for Erectile Dysfunction

Dr. Allen commonly prescribes the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant for patients who have chronic erectile dysfunction. This is an ED treatment device that is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, single-use implant intended for use in the treatment of chronic, organic, erectile dysfunction in men who are determined to be suitable candidates for implantation surgery. The prosthesis consists of a pair of cylinders that are surgically inserted into the penis. The prosthesis is positioned up for intercourse or down for everyday activities. Once inserted into the penis, Dr. Allen will consult and coach the patient on how to function everyday with this device, and how to use it properly for sexual intercourse.

As with any penile implant device, the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant has its list of advantages and disadvantages that must be considered by each patient:

Advantages of the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant

• It represents a good option for men with limited dexterity
• Easy to use
• Totally concealed within the body
• Generally the simplest surgical procedure

Disadvantages of the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant

• Remains firm when not being used
• Less appropriate for patients requiring repeated cystoscopy

For additional information on the common causes of ED, or for more resources on the AMS Spectra Concealable Penile Implant as a penis implant for erectile dysfunction, please contact the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas urology office of Dr. Mark Allen.

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