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BPC Traffic Light FAQs
Why are we recording and presenting data in this way?
This traffic light study for results is significantly different to the way research is traditionally undertaken and presented.
For the first time in the field of prostate cancer treatment, patients can individually track and compare their progress with other patients. We are using clearly measurable and understandable terms, avoiding traditional terms such as ‘erectile recovery’ which are unclear.
The traffic light study is an ongoing process – it is not a ‘snapshot’ taken from a fixed period of time. Patients and prospective patients can see how many men have taken part in the study and when the results were last updated.
Why are we focusing on erectile function and continence after prostate cancer surgery?
The primary objective of prostate cancer surgery is full and complete cancer clearance. This type of operation, the prostatectomy, is very effective for cancer clearance. The outcomes which do vary very widely however, are erectile dysfunction and incontinence as a result of this surgery. These are outcomes which matter a great deal to patients.
We are providing a clearer and more comprehensive focus on these outcomes to enable patients to understand what to expect before surgery and compare their progress after surgery. We can discuss all aspects of this operation with you but our experience from treating thousands of men is that erectile function and continence are the outcomes that matter to patients.
What do the traffic lights mean?
Erectile Function
| Green: Sufficient for full sexual intercourse. | |
| Light Green: Sufficient for masturbation /foreplay but not full sexual intercourse. | |
| Amber: Some enlargement but not sufficient for sexual activity. | |
| Red: No enlargement. |
|
| Awaiting response from patient. |
Continence
| Green: No pads (or precautionary pad only). | |
| Amber: One pad per day. |
|
| Red: Two or more pads per day. |
|
| Awaiting response from patient. |
How do we measure each patient’s status?
If a patient agrees to join the Traffic Light study, in addition to normal follow-up appointments, they are asked to complete a questionnaire every three months for a year. We use the EPIC questionnaire. This is a questionnaire which has been used extensively worldwide as the most accurate way of assessing erectile function.
Are all patients included?
The traffic light study is open to all patients who have had a prostatectomy with Mr Doherty. One of the major challenges to understanding erectile function after prostate cancer surgery has been the differences within patient groups. For example, older patients with poorer erectile function before surgery are likely to have a different erectile recovery compared with a younger patient who is motivated to return to normal sexual intercourse.
Therefore, patients have been categorised as being Index, Non-Index or High-Risk patients. An Index patient is a man who has normal erectile function before prostate surgery and is motivated to return to sexual intercourse after surgery. An Index patient will also be clinically suitable for nerve-sparing surgery – a procedure where Mr Doherty is able to minimise damage to the erectile nerves which lie adjacent to the prostate, rather than taking the ‘wide margins’ approach of the traditional radical prostatectomy.
What about patient confidentiality?
Patient confidentiality is a paramount concern. Patients who consent to join the traffic light study are given a number. The patient and clinic staff are the only ones to know which patient is ascribed a particular number. The patient can then log in with their individual number, chart their own progress and see how it compares with anonymous others.
