A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of the prostate gland.
Your prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland that’s part of the male reproductive system. It surrounds the urethra, which is the tube through which semen (ejaculate) and urine (pee) flow out of your body. Fluid (semen) from your prostate enters the urethra during ejaculation, and muscles surrounding the urethra contract to push semen out of the urethra when you orgasm.
A prostatectomy is a common surgery for prostate cancer that has not yet spread outside your prostate. Healthcare providers perform about 90,000 prostatectomies each year in the United States.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer that affects men and people AMAB (assigned male at birth). It affects about 1 in 8 men, at an average age of 66.
Two main types of prostatectomy define the severity of prostate removal: radical and simple prostatectomy.
A simple prostatectomy removes the inner part of the prostate gland, typically used to treat BPH (or an enlarged prostate).
For patients with severe BPH symptoms who haven't responded to medication, a simple robotic prostatectomy may be recommended.
This procedure removes the inner portion of the enlarged prostate, relieving urinary symptoms while preserving sexual function.
A radical prostatectomy is the complete removal of the prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissues that may be affected by prostate cancer.
Radical prostatectomy may be performed in several unique methods, but the common goal is the complete and curative management of prostate cancer.
Additionally, there are several different methods of performing a radical prostatectomy. The approach will vary depending on the diagnosis, severity, and treatment plan.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Early detection can lead to successful treatment. Common symptoms of prostate problems include:
It's important to note that non-cancerous conditions can also cause similar symptoms. Regular check-ups and screenings are crucial for early detection and treatment of prostate issues.
At Z Urology, we specialize in robotic-assisted prostatectomy using the advanced Da Vinci Surgical System. This minimally invasive approach offers several benefits over traditional open surgery:
Most patients can return home within 24 hours after surgery, with the vast majority of patients arriving back home on the same day. Full recovery typically takes 2-4 weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities. Our team at Z Urology provides comprehensive post-operative care and support throughout your recovery journey.
Many people will have temporary urinary incontinence after a prostatectomy. Incontinence rates are higher after radical prostatectomy than for simple prostatectomy. Types of incontinence may include:
Many people have excellent control of their urine stream once a provider removes their catheter, but some may leak varying amounts for several weeks. Most have good urinary control around six to 12 weeks after the procedure.
Many men can resume having sex once they’ve healed after a prostatectomy, which may take four to six weeks.
Most patients still achieve an erection after recovery from simple (or partial) prostatectomy.
Almost all patients experience sexual dysfunction after a radical (or complete) prostatectomy for prostate cancer. This is because the removal of the cancerous prostate and surrounding tissue can involve bruising, damage, or removal of the nerves that enable erections.
Fortunately, there are advanced technologies and operative techniques today that allow surgeons to preserve some or all of the nerves involved in erection. This will depend on the severity of your condition and the treatment required to remove prostate cancer.
If you have questions or concerns, reach out to the Z Urology team.
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