What is radical prostaectomy?

Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissue, including the seminal vesicles, along with the adjacent tissue and the lymph nodes in the pelvis. This procedure is typically performed to treat localized prostate cancer that is confined to the prostate gland.

Radical prostatectomy aims to remove the entire cancerous tissue while preserving important surrounding structures, such as the nerves responsible for erectile function and the sphincter muscles that control urinary continence. The surgery typically involves either an open surgical approach or a minimally invasive approach, such as robotic-assisted surgery or laparoscopic surgery.

Here are the key steps involved in radical prostatectomy:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to remain unconscious and pain-free during the surgery.

2. Surgical Approach:

a. Open surgery: A surgical incision is made in the lower abdomen or perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus) to directly access the prostate gland.

b. Robotic-assisted or Laparoscopic surgery: Small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to provide a magnified view of the prostate. Specialized surgical instruments are then inserted through the small incisions to perform the procedure.

3. Prostate and Tissue Removal:

a. The prostate gland is carefully dissected from the surrounding tissues, including the seminal vesicles and nearby lymph nodes. These structures are removed to reduce the risk of cancer spread.

b. The surgeon preserves important structures, such as the nerves responsible for erectile function (neurovascular bundles), to try and minimize the impact on sexual function.

4. Reconstruction and Closure:

a. After removing the prostate, the surgeon connects the bladder and urethra (the tube through which urine is eliminated) to restore urine flow.

b. The surgical incisions are then closed with sutures or surgical glue.

After the procedure, the patient undergoes recovery in the hospital. The surgical team monitors their condition, provides pain management, and administers antibiotics to prevent infection. The timeline for recovery and the specific post-operative instructions depend on the surgical approach used and the patient's overall health.

Radical prostatectomy is a complex surgical procedure, and its success and potential complications depend on various factors, including the stage and location of cancer, the surgeon's expertise, and the patient's individual characteristics and overall health.