Prostate cancer surgery is a treatment option for men with prostate cancer that has not spread to other body parts. The goal of the surgery is to remove the entire prostate gland and any surrounding tissue that may contain cancer cells. The most common types of prostate cancer surgery are open prostatectomy and laparoscopic prostatectomy.
Open prostatectomy is a traditional surgical procedure involving a large incision in the abdomen to remove the prostate gland. This type of surgery typically requires a hospital stay of several days and a recovery period of several weeks.
What is Surgery to Remove Prostate Cancer?
Laparoscopic prostatectomy, also called robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses small incisions in the abdomen and a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) to remove the prostate gland. The surgeon controls the laparoscope and other surgical instruments using a robotic system. This surgery typically results in less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery than open surgery.
In both cases, general anesthesia is given to the patient before the procedure. The surgical time is usually around 3-5 hours. The prostate gland is then removed and sent to pathology to ensure all cancerous tissue has been removed.
After the surgery, the patient will be closely monitored for any complications, such as bleeding or infection. They will also be given pain medication to manage any discomfort. Typically, patients will stay in the hospital for 2-3 days following the surgery. After that, they will need to rest at home for about 2-4 weeks before returning to normal activities.
It’s important to note that surgery may not be a complete cure for prostate cancer, and additional treatments may be needed after surgery, depending on the stage and grade of cancer. For example, radiation therapy or hormone therapy may be recommended for patients with a high risk of recurrence.
What are the Types of Surgery to Remove Prostate Cancer?
Several types of surgery can be used to remove prostate cancer, including:
- Radical Prostatectomy: This is the most common prostate cancer surgery type. It involves removing the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissue and lymph nodes. This can be done through an open incision or laparoscopically (using small incisions and special instruments).
- Laparoscopic Prostatectomy: This is a minimally invasive surgery, using small incisions and special instruments to remove the prostate.
- Robotic Prostatectomy: This minimally invasive surgery uses a robot to assist the surgeon in removing the prostate.
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): This surgery involves removing a portion of the prostate gland through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
- Cryosurgery: This procedure uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy cancer cells in the prostate.
- HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): This non-invasive procedure uses high-energy sound waves to heat and destroys cancer cells in the prostate.
The choice of surgery will depend on the stage and aggressiveness of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. It is important to consult with a urologist or medical oncologist who can recommend the best treatment option.
Conclusion
Physical therapy or rehabilitation may also be recommended to help the patient regain strength and mobility after surgery. It’s also important for the patient to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen to promote healing and improve overall health. Surgery to remove prostate cancer is an effective treatment option for prostate cancer, but it is not appropriate for every patient. Factors such as the stage and grade of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health, must be considered when deciding on the best treatment approach. Your surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks of surgery with you and help you determine if it is the right option.