What Is Robotic Radical Prostatectomy? What You Need to Know About Prostate Cancer Surgery
After cancer is detected in a prostate biopsy, one of the first questions many patients have is:
“Do I need surgery? What is robotic surgery?”
Today, one of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of localized prostate cancer is robotic radical prostatectomy.
Thanks to robotic surgery, prostate cancer treatment can be performed more precisely, and many patients may experience faster recovery and a more comfortable postoperative period.
However, not every patient with prostate cancer needs surgery, and the most appropriate treatment option may differ for each patient.
For this reason, the characteristics of the disease must first be evaluated in detail.
What Is Radical Prostatectomy?
Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure performed in the treatment of prostate cancer.
In this operation:
- The entire prostate gland is removed
- The seminal vesicles are removed
- Pelvic lymph nodes may be removed in patients when considered necessary
The aim is to completely remove the cancerous tissue.
What Is Robotic Radical Prostatectomy?
Robotic radical prostatectomy is the performance of radical prostatectomy surgery using a robotic surgical system.
The robot does not perform the surgery on its own.
Who Is Robotic Surgery Suitable For?
Robotic radical prostatectomy is generally one of the preferred treatment options for:
- Patients with cancer limited to the prostate
- Individuals who are candidates for surgical treatment
- Patients with a long expected life expectancy
When making the decision:
- Age
- General health condition
- PSA level
- Gleason score
- Grade Group
- MRI and other imaging results
are evaluated together.
What Is Nerve-Sparing Surgery?
There are nerve bundles responsible for erectile function on both sides of the prostate.
In suitable patients, it may be possible to preserve these nerves.
This approach is called “nerve-sparing surgery.”
The decision to preserve the nerves is made by considering:
- The extent of the cancer
- MRI findings
- Biopsy results
- The patient’s expectations
It may not be applicable in every patient.
Does Urinary Incontinence Occur After Robotic Prostate Surgery?
This is one of the issues patients are most commonly concerned about.
Temporary urinary incontinence may occur after surgery.
However, significant improvement is achieved over time in the majority of patients.
The recovery process may be affected by many factors such as:
- The patient’s age
- General health condition
- The condition of the pelvic floor muscles
- Surgical technique
Are Sexual Functions Affected?
Erectile functions may be temporarily or permanently affected after surgery.
This risk depends on factors such as:
- The patient’s age
- Preoperative erectile function quality
- The extent of the cancer
- Whether nerve-sparing surgery can be performed
Today, successful results can be achieved in many patients thanks to nerve-sparing techniques and rehabilitation methods.
How Is Follow-Up Performed After Surgery?
Regular PSA checks are performed after surgery.
After a successful radical prostatectomy, the PSA level is expected to decrease to very low levels.
The follow-up program is planned according to the patient’s pathology result.
What Is the Success Rate of Robotic Prostate Surgery?
Robotic radical prostatectomy provides highly successful results in prostate cancers detected at an early stage.
The aim is not only to treat the cancer, but also to:
- Ensure cancer control
- Preserve urinary control
- Maintain quality of life
- Preserve sexual functions in suitable patients
Success is closely related to proper patient selection and an experienced surgical team.
Conclusion
Robotic radical prostatectomy is one of the most commonly preferred surgical methods today in the treatment of localized prostate cancer.
Thanks to the technological advantages provided by robotic systems, high cancer control can be achieved in many patients while also aiming to preserve functions that affect quality of life.
If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, it is important to evaluate all your options in detail with an experienced urology specialist in order to determine the most appropriate treatment option for you.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Yalçın
Urology Specialist
Robotic Radical Prostatectomy • Prostate Cancer • Robotic Urology • Urologic Oncology • Minimally Invasive Surgery