Surgical methods and techniques for prostate cancer have evolved over the years just as most things do. These days, there is a high-tech procedure known as robotic-assisted surgery for prostate cancer, but how does this more recent procedure compare with traditional prostate surgery methods? Is it better and more effective, or just different? Let’s find out.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Prostate Surgery?
Prostate surgery performed with the assistance of robotics is a form of laparoscopic surgery and is only a minimally invasive procedure. A laparoscopic radical prostatectomy method is used to remove the prostate gland. This method utilises an intra-abdominal digital camera, allowing the surgeon to have a clear and magnified image by which to work. Six tiny incisions are required to perform robotic-assisted prostate surgery and these incisions heal up rapidly following the surgery’s completion.
After a successful procedure, the patient generally remains in the hospital for 48 hours and is then discharged, completing their recovery at home.
Robotic Prostate Surgery Is Not Suited To Everyone
While robotic-assisted surgery for prostate cancer patients is effective and cutting-edge, it’s not a procedure that’s suitable for all patients who require prostate surgery.
For example, if a patient has undergone any form of major abdominal surgery in the past, having robotic-assisted prostate surgery could result in complications. The same applies to laparoscopic hernia surgery, where mesh has been inserted into the abdomen. Robotic surgery is also generally not recommended for patients who have undergone prostate surgery previously. Other conditions not conducive to the procedure are patients with eye diseases such as glaucoma, due to the patient’s need to be in a head down position while the procedure takes place.
First, consult with a urologist to discover whether robotic-assisted surgery is the best option for you. You can locate specialists online for your area. “Robotic treatment for prostate cancer Sydney” is an example of what to search for.
The Benefits Of Prostate Surgery Assisted By Robotics
Importantly, the effective removal of all cancer tissue is heightened when the robotic-assisted procedure is used. This is critical to note, as this is the purpose of having the procedure to begin with. Efficiency in removing all cancer cells improves the future prognosis for the patient, giving them every chance of being cancer-free following the surgery.
As was talked about in the previous section, one of the main benefits of this form of surgery is the recovery time post-surgery. With more traditional and more invasive prostate removal procedures, recovery following the surgery is a lot longer than what a patient experiences with the laparoscopic method.
Robotic-assisted surgery also helps to ensure the preservation of continence in the patient. With the assistance of magnified imagery, the removal of the cancer-affected areas is more precise, with far less chance of damage to other areas of the body, including the urinary tract and pelvic floor muscles. In the past, some patients have experienced incontinence following more invasive surgery techniques.
Another problem that can result from a surgical procedure for the removal of the prostate is erectile dysfunction (ED). With the laparoscopic method and the resulting precision of the procedure, any chance of damage that can cause ED is minimised. During a regulation radical prostatectomy, although methods and techniques have vastly improved in recent years, there is still the chance of damaging important nerves in the region of the prostate; nerves that enable a full and satisfying erection. Robotic-assisted surgery, if it’s a viable option for the patient, reduces the chances of any nerve damage occurring that can lead to ED.
Are Traditional Methods Still Viable?
A traditional radical prostatectomy is still an excellent option for patients who require prostate removal but can’t undergo robotic-assisted prostate surgery. It’s a tried and true method that has been used by surgeons the world over for many years and techniques are constantly being refined.
This procedure is still a very safe and viable option for prostate cancer patients who can’t avail of a robotic prostate procedure for any reason.
The Wrap
Robotic-assisted surgery for prostate cancer utilises cutting-edge technology, resulting in prostate cancer removal that is both highly effective and far less invasive than traditional procedures. It’s best to discuss the right option for you with your urologist.
