Patrick Overcame Prostate Cancer Complications with Axonics Therapy
In the fall of 2018, Patrick Mitchell’s life changed when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
To treat the cancer, Patrick underwent 47 proton beam radiation treatments in early 2019. While the treatment addressed his cancer, it caused severe complications with urination, requiring Patrick to self-catheterize for nearly a year to maintain a productive urine flow.
Splitting his time between Montana and San Antonio, Patrick decided it was time for a change. His primary care physician referred him to Dr. Shane Barney, a board-certified urologist at CHRISTUS Health in San Antonio.
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In 2023, Dr. Barney performed a cystoscopy to visualize Patrick’s urinary pathway and followed it with a UroLift procedure.
The procedure was a turning point—Patrick no longer needed to self-catheterize. However, in 2024, a repeat cystoscopy revealed that Patrick’s incomplete bladder voiding stemmed from weak bladder muscles, likely caused by his prior radiation treatment. Dr. Barney recommended Axonics therapy, a state-of-the-art solution to improve bladder function.
Patrick appreciated Dr. Barney’s approach to patient care. “Dr. Barney helped me become an educated decision-maker,” Patrick shared. “He encouraged me to take my time, research my options, and make the decision when I was ready. He was never pushy, and I really valued that.”
After taking a year to consider his options, Patrick underwent the Axonics procedure—and the results were life-changing. “I walked away the very next day with no side effects or adverse reactions,” Patrick said. “I don’t have to self-catheterize anymore. I’m no longer bionic.”
With Axonics devices lasting around 15 years, Patrick doesn’t expect to need another replacement in his lifetime. Now, he only sees Dr. Barney for annual checkups to ensure everything remains on track.
Patrick highly recommends Dr. Barney and CHRISTUS Health. “Dr. Barney is at the top of his game. He’s confident, knowledgeable, and truly cares about his patients. The entire urology team is exceptional—precise, accurate, and always available to answer questions quickly.”
Reflecting on his journey, Patrick expressed gratitude for the positive outcomes. “Axonics therapy works. I’m a fan of it, and I can’t recommend Dr. Barney and CHRISTUS Health enough.”
Thanks to Dr. Barney and the dedicated CHRISTUS urology team, Patrick is now able to enjoy his life without the burdens he once faced.