Radical Prostatectomy

Radical prostatectomy is a type of prostatectomy surgery in which a whole prostate together with surrounding tissues is removed. This procedure is mainly used as a prostate cancer treatment, especially in cases of malignant cancers that already have started to spread. For benign prostate tumours or first stages of prostate cancer, the simple prostatectomy or partial prostatectomy may be a solution.
Radical prostatectomy may be performed using different methods:
• Open prostatectomy – doctors access the operation site through a large incision
• Laparoscopic prostatectomy – doctors perform a number of small incisions through which laparoscopes enter the patient’s body. A laparoscope is a device armed with surgical tools and camera.
• Robotic prostatectomy – in robotic-assisted prostatectomy doctors use a special robotic device which operates with precision unachievable in open or even laparoscopic prostatectomy. Again, the incisions made during robotic prostatectomy are smaller than those made in open prostatectomy.
• Transurethral prostatectomy – doctors access the prostate through one’s urethra.
In recent years patients increasingly decide for prostatectomy treatment abroad, thanks to lower prices matched with good quality in medical tourism destinations as well as suitable conditions for full, successful recovery.

Radical Prostatectomy Candidates

Candidates for radical prostatectomy are predominantly prostate cancer patients, especially if the cancer is malignant.
Among the most common symptoms of prostate cancer are problems with urination, increased frequency of urination, blood in urine and in semen as well as swelling and pain in hips and legs. People with signs of prostate cancer are asked to undergo a series of tests, including PSA and biopsy, which help determine whether they have this disease or other medical condition.

Radical Prostatectomy Summary

Radical Prostatectomy Recovery

Radical prostatectomy recovery may be a lengthy process but it does not mean a weeks-long hospital stay. After an initial couple of days in a hospital bed, you will be free to go home. In the first 7-10 days, you will have a urethral catheter helping you urinate. You will feel some pain after radical prostatectomy surgery but it is manageable with painkillers provided by your doctor. With consideration for your day-to-day life after radical prostatectomy, try to increase your activity day by day and avoid strenuous chores for some weeks.