Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/397030
In March 2014, Lum, 72, wasn't expecting to walk away from his annual physical with cancer on his mind. But when his doctor performed his annual prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, discovering elevated levels of protein in the blood, the lawyer launched into research mode. Lum scheduled a consultation with J. Denton Harris, IV, MD, Urologist with CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth. After further testing, the presence of prostate cancer was confirmed. The test scored an 8 on the 2–10 Gleason scale, a grading system that microscopically evaluates cancerous tissue. The higher the score, the more likely the cancer will spread. Not the type to panic, Lum immediately set about gathering data to inform his next steps. "I wanted to confirm that I did, in fact, have an aggressive type of the cancer and understand what my treatment options were, so I got a second opinion in Houston," Lum says. "After my diagnosis was confirmed, I started researching different surgeries and discovered my best option was available right here in Beaumont." ROBOTASSISTED SOLUTIONS Attracted to the idea of minimal infection, pain, scarring and recovery time, Lum decided on robotic surgery, which was recommended by Dr. Harris and has been performed at CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth since December 2013. Using the sophisticated da Vinci ® Si Surgical System, Dr. Harris and Brian Miles, MD, removed Lum's cancer on May 10, 2014. He was back to work in the courtroom just nine days later. "I have been at work full-time ever since, with no side effects, no problems and a good PSA reading," says Lum, who likes to walk his two dogs and do woodworking during his down time. "I'm a happy guy." Be your own advocate. Learn more about robotic surgery at CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth by visiting www.christushospital.org/davincirobot. — J. Denton Harris, IV, MD, Urologist with CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth THE CASE FOR DA VINCI Incorporating the use of high-definition, three- dimensional video and telemanipulators, the da Vinci ® Si Surgical System is a robotic option used in lieu of traditional laparoscopic and open surgeries. Enabling surgeons to make minimal incisions and perform complex procedures that may not be possible without robotic assistance, the advanced technology offers many benefits to the patient, including: • decreased post-surgery pain • faster recovery times • reduced risk of infections • shorter hospital stays "Patients have done extremely well with this surgery, and they didn't have to go all the way to Houston for state-of-the-art options," says J. Denton Harris, IV, MD, Urologist with CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth. "This technology is available right here in Beaumont." The Final Verdict As a practicing attorney, Joseph C. Hawthorn — "Lum" to his friends — didn't have time to deal with prostate cancer. So he picked a treatment option that would get the job done quickly and get it done well. "With robotic surgery, doctors can perform more precise incisions and reconstructions. There is less blood loss and less pain, and patients can get back to work more quickly. What's not to like?" 7 LiveWell | October/November 2014