Radical Prostatectomy

Overview

Radical Prostatectomy is a surgical treatment that involves the complete removal of the prostate gland. It is commonly done to treat prostate cancer and helps prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. The prostate is a small gland that produces fluid for semen and plays a role in male fertility. This surgery can be performed using traditional open methods, laparoscopic techniques, or with the help of robotic systems, depending on the patient’s condition and medical advice.

Why Radical Prostatectomy Treatment is Required?

Used when prostate cancer is localized and has not spread outside the gland.

Recommended in patients with a long life expectancy and good overall health.

Advised when the PSA level is high and biopsy confirms cancer.

Often preferred for younger men who can tolerate surgery and recover well.

Chosen when other treatment options like radiation are not suitable.

Helps in accurate cancer staging and reduces risk of recurrence.

Key Advantages of Radical Prostatectomy Treatment

Complete removal of cancerous tissue.

Reduces risk of cancer spreading or returning.

Improves survival rate and long-term prognosis.

PSA levels drop to undetectable range after successful surgery.

Helps relieve urinary symptoms in some patients.

Advanced techniques like robotic prostatectomy result in less pain and faster recovery.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Radical Prostatectomy Treatment

Undergo necessary tests like PSA, biopsy, MRI and bone scan.

Discuss existing medications and health history with your doctor.

Stop blood thinners as advised to reduce bleeding risk.

Avoid heavy meals and drink only clear fluids the day before surgery.

Arrange for a few weeks of rest post-surgery for proper healing.

Mentally prepare by discussing concerns about recovery and side effects.

How Radical Prostatectomy Treatment is Performed?

The prostate gland is surgically removed through a small cut in the abdomen.

May be done by open surgery, laparoscopy, or robot-assisted technique.

The surgeon may also remove nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.

A urinary catheter is placed to help drain the bladder during healing.

The entire procedure may take 2 to 4 hours, depending on complexity.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

Medical evaluation and anesthesia discussion.

Hospital admission, usually the day of surgery.

Fasting for several hours before the procedure.

2. During the Procedure:

Performed under general anesthesia.

Surgeon removes the prostate through small incisions.

May use robotic equipment for better precision and quicker recovery.

3. After the Procedure:

Hospital stay for 1 to 2 days is common.

Urinary catheter stays for about a week or more.

Gradual return to normal activities over 4 to 6 weeks.

Monitoring of PSA levels begins after recovery.

Risk and Potential Complications

Urinary incontinence in the early recovery period.

Erectile dysfunction is common but may improve over time.

Bleeding and infection risk post-surgery.

Risk of scarring in the urethra affecting urination.

Possibility of ejaculating urine or dry orgasms.

Emotional and psychological effects, including stress or anxiety.

Results/Outcomes

High cure rates if cancer is detected early and removed fully.

Long-term cancer control in most patients.

Regular PSA tests help monitor for recurrence.

Many men regain urinary and sexual function with time and support.

Advanced robotic techniques improve surgical precision and outcomes.