Radical prostatectomy

Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer. It involves the removal of the prostate gland and some surrounding tissue, including the seminal vesicles and sometimes nearby lymph nodes, depending on the extent of the cancer.

Here’s a general overview of what the procedure involves:

Purpose

• Primary Treatment: To remove the cancerous prostate and potentially cure the cancer if it’s localized.
• Symptom Relief: To alleviate symptoms like urinary obstruction caused by cancer.

Types of Radical Prostatectomy

1. Open Radical Prostatectomy: This is done through a large incision in the lower abdomen.
2. Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: This is done through several small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments.
3. Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy: A type of laparoscopic surgery where the surgeon uses a robotic system to perform the surgery with high precision.

Procedure Steps

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: Depending on the approach, an incision is made in the abdomen or a few small incisions are made for laparoscopic surgery.
3. Removal: The prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and possibly nearby lymph nodes are removed.
4. Reconstruction: The bladder is reattached to the urethra.
5. Closing: The incision(s) are closed, and a catheter is usually placed in the bladder to drain urine.

Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Typically 1-3 days.
• Catheter: Usually remains in place for 1-2 weeks.
• Recovery Time: Full recovery can take several weeks to months. Many men experience improvements in urinary function and sexual health over time.

Potential Side Effects

• Urinary Incontinence: Difficulty controlling urine.
• Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
• Infertility: As the prostate and seminal vesicles are removed, it’s not possible to ejaculate in the traditional manner.
• Other Risks: Infection, bleeding, and blood clots.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

• Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor recovery and ensure the cancer has not recurred.
• Rehabilitation exercises and therapies may help with recovery of urinary and sexual function.

If you’re considering or have been advised to undergo a radical prostatectomy, it’s important to discuss all aspects of the procedure, including potential benefits and risks, with your urologist or healthcare provider.