Glossary of Terms

A surgical technique during a prostatectomy where one or both of hte neurovascular bundles controlling erections are spared. The utilization of his procedure is governed by the extent of hte cancer and the skill of the surgeon.

The result of damage to the nerves, often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It can also affect other areas and body functions including digestion, urination and circulation.

An abnormally low count of a type of white blood cell (neutrophils).

The need for patients to get up at night on a regular basis to urinate. A period of sleep must precede and follow the urinary episode for it to count as a nocturnal void. Nocturia is often described as the most bothersome of all urinary symptoms and is also one of the most common. Nocturia can be associated with long-term sleep deprivation, in addition to the inconvenience that it causes. Many patients are reluctant to mention nocturia to their providers or mistakenly believe it is a normal part of aging.

A lump or growth that may or may not be malignant (cancer).

Not cancer. Nonmalignant tumors may grow larger but do not spread to other parts of the body. Also called benign.