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Traditional or robotic radical prostatectomy |
 Radical prostatectomy – surgical removal of a cancerous prostate gland and surrounding lymph nodes – is one of the most common, effective and widely accepted prostate cancer surgeries. It’s generally reserved for men with cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate. Traditional prostatectomy is major surgery that requires a large incision; three to five days of hospitalization, and about six weeks of recovery time at home. A catheter is needed to assist with urination for up to three weeks after surgery. Possible side effects include urinary incontinence and impotence. Robotic prostatectomy with the daVinci Surgical System helps cut down on side effects such as impotence and incontinence, plus allows men to resume normal activities sooner. The procedure requires three small surgical incisions in the lower abdomen instead of one large one, which among other benefits results in less patient blood loss. A catheter is only needed for one week following surgery. Despite these advantages, robotic prostatectomy is not ideal for all prostate cancer patients. Generally, men in good health with a early-stage disease are the best candidates. Those with advanced prostate cancer may require the traditional, open technique. For more information, speak with your doctor or call Saint Raphael’s at (203) 867-5616; toll-free at (866) 291-4673. |
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