Trifecta (post-prostatectomy)
The three goals after prostate cancer surgery: cancer control, continence, and potency.
Trifecta rates measure how often all three are achieved at 12 months: undetectable PSA, full continence (no pads), and potency (erections sufficient for intercourse). Rates vary widely by surgeon — 40-70% at 12 months at experienced centers.
What this means for you: ask any prostate surgeon for their trifecta rate. The number tells you a lot.
What a term means for you depends on your own reports. Ask your treating doctor, or send your reports for a free review.