Understanding Prostate Cancer Surgery: What to Expect
Introduction: What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with over 47,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While prostate cancer can be slow-growing, in some cases, it can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are key to managing the disease effectively, and in many cases, surgery is recommended to remove the cancer.
Who Needs Prostate Cancer Surgery?
Not all men with prostate cancer will need surgery. The decision depends on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the patient’s age, overall health, and whether the cancer is contained within the prostate or has spread to other areas.
For men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer that is localized to the prostate, surgery may be the best option to remove the cancer completely.
Types of Prostate Cancer Surgery
Men in Milton Keynes and Oxford have access to a range of surgical treatments for prostate cancer. The most common procedure is a radical prostatectomy, which involves the removal of the prostate gland along with some of the surrounding tissue. There are different methods of performing a radical prostatectomy, each with its own advantages.
1. Open Radical Prostatectomy
This is the traditional method of prostate removal, where the surgeon makes a larger incision in the lower abdomen to access the prostate gland. While effective, this approach typically involves longer recovery times and a higher risk of complications compared to minimally invasive methods.
2. Laparoscopic Prostatectomy
A laparoscopic prostatectomy involves making several small incisions instead of one large one. A camera and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions to remove the prostate. This technique results in less blood loss, less pain, and faster recovery times.
3. Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy
A robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a type of laparoscopic surgery where the surgeon uses a robotic system to control the instruments with greater precision. The Da Vinci Surgical System is the most commonly used robotic platform for prostate surgery. Robotic surgery offers patients several benefits, including smaller incisions, less scarring, and a quicker return to normal activities.
Internal Link: For more information on Prostate Cancer Surgery at our clinic, visit our dedicated page.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before undergoing prostate cancer surgery, you’ll have a series of consultations with your urologist to discuss your treatment plan. This will include blood tests, imaging scans, and possibly a biopsy to confirm the stage of your cancer. Your surgeon will explain the type of surgery recommended, along with the benefits and risks.
The Surgery Day
Prostate cancer surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the type of surgery, the procedure can take between 2 and 4 hours. After surgery, most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days, though some minimally invasive surgeries may allow you to go home the same day.
Recovery After Prostate Cancer Surgery
Recovery from prostate cancer surgery varies depending on the method used. In general:
You may need to use a catheter for a few days to help drain urine.
Most men can resume normal activities within a few weeks, though it may take longer for those who have undergone open surgery.
Full recovery of urinary and sexual function may take several months, and your doctor will guide you through the process with specific recommendations.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and blood clots. The main complications specific to prostate cancer surgery include urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. However, advancements in surgical techniques, particularly robotic-assisted surgery, have significantly reduced these risks.
External Links: For more in-depth information about prostate cancer surgery, visit the links below
Downloadable Resources:
For more detailed information on prostate cancer surgery options, you can download these helpful patient guides from BAUS:
Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy (RALP) Patient Guide (PDF) – Find out more about robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique using robotic technology.
Prostate Cancer Surgery or Radiotherapy Patient Guide (PDF) – Information to help patients choose between surgery and radiotherapy as treatment options for prostate cancer.
